Ellsworth, Maine – Organizers of the Labor Day rally scheduled for Monday announced that former Democratic Senate nominee Graham Platner will no longer address the crowd. The decision follows a wave of negative media coverage stemming from allegations that a former girlfriend accused Platner of sexual assault, as well as earlier reports of domestic‑abuse claims and offensive online comments.
Background on Platner’s campaign
Platner, an oyster farmer and combat veteran, won the Democratic nomination for the U.S. Senate seat in June 2026. He withdrew from the race in July after Politico reported the assault allegation. During his brief campaign, he emphasized working‑class concerns such as the high cost of housing and health‑care, and he toured the state in a barnstorming effort that helped Democrats retain the seat after Governor Janet Mills suspended her campaign.
Why the rally plans changed
The Labor Day event, organized by Hancock County Activists, was intended to feature Platner speaking on labor history and the importance of unions in the United States. However, the former girlfriend and another woman who accused Platner of domestic abuse urged organizers to remove him from the speaking slot. Carol Leonard, a spokesperson for the activist group, said, “The media frenzy got just too insane, and we became concerned about safety.”
In response, the rally’s schedule was altered. Platner will instead lead a veterans’ march that follows the main program, allowing him to participate without delivering a formal speech.
Other controversies
Platner’s campaign was plagued by additional scandals. In late May, media outlets reported that he had exchanged sexually explicit text messages with several women while married. He also faced criticism for a tattoo that resembled a Nazi symbol, which he later covered with a new design after claiming he was unaware of its meaning. Further, old online posts surfaced in which Platner used insulting language toward women, police officers, and rural residents, prompting public apologies.
Impact on the Democratic ticket
After Platner’s withdrawal, Democrats convened a nominating convention in July and selected former Maine Senate President Troy Jackson as the party’s candidate against Republican Sen. Susan Collins. Jackson, who had campaigned alongside Platner in the spring, has publicly distanced himself from the former nominee following the assault allegations.
What’s next for the rally
The Ellsworth Labor Day rally will proceed as planned, featuring live music, additional speakers, and the veterans’ march. Organizers emphasized that the event remains a celebration of community, labor heritage, and the service of local veterans.
Residents who plan to attend are encouraged to arrive early, as the midday schedule may draw sizable crowds. Safety measures will be in place, and local law enforcement has been briefed on the revised program.
Original reporting: NBC10 Boston — read the source article.
