Bernie Sanders Joins Calls for Platner to Withdraw from Maine Senate Race
Tyunews.com – Graham Platner, the Democratic Senate candidate in Maine, is under pressure to exit the race following a sexual assault accusation released on Monday. The claim, made by Jenny Racicot, a former girlfriend, alleges that Platner pressured her into intercourse without consent during their relationship five years ago. Platner has labeled the allegation as “completely untrue,” asserting he is “reviewing the optimal course of action moving forward.”
Allegations Against Platner
Racicot detailed the incident to Politico, revealing she had previously discussed the event with the New York Times off the record. She now plans to present the story publicly, emphasizing her alignment with Platner’s political views as a reason for her delayed disclosure. The incident occurred in the lead-up to Maine’s June 9 primary, adding urgency to the controversy.
“The allegations against Graham Platner are troubling and deeply serious. I am rescinding my endorsement,” said Arizona Senator Ruben Gallego in a post on X.
Party Leadership’s Response
Leadership within the Maine Democratic Party has urged Platner to step down, highlighting a series of credible claims against him. In a joint statement, Chair Charlie Dingman, Vice Chair Imke Schessler, and Executive Director Devon Murphy-Anderson emphasized their support for women and survivors, stating, “The Maine Democratic Party leadership stands with women and survivors, and that principle does not bend based on party affiliation.”
“Over the past several weeks, multiple women have made serious, credible allegations against Graham Platner. Today’s statements take those allegations even further,” the officials added.
Supporters and Endorsements
Senators Elizabeth Warren and Bernie Sanders, who initially backed Platner’s campaign, have now joined the push for him to withdraw. Sanders stated, “I have spoken with Graham Platner about the best path forward for Maine. In light of these very serious allegations, I have recommended that he step aside.”
California Representative Ro Khanna also distanced himself, declaring, “I’ve been very clear that sexual assault or violence against women is a red line. These allegations are very serious and credible. Graham Platner should drop out from the race. I am withdrawing my endorsement.”
Campaign Defense
Platner’s team responded Monday, insisting the claims are “seriously coached and coordinated by out-of-state establishment operatives.” They noted that Platner had faced prior scrutiny, including sending sexually explicit messages to multiple women and a tattoo featuring Nazi symbolism. He explained that he was unaware of the tattoo’s historical significance until it was pointed out, at which point he took steps to address it.
“For a year, opponents of this campaign have thrown everything they can at Graham — calling him a Nazi, a war criminal, and a communist,” the campaign statement said. “None of it has been true and this is no different.”
As the race intensifies, the debate over Platner’s eligibility continues to divide Democrats, with some remaining loyal to his candidacy despite the mounting pressure.
