Maine Democratic Senate candidate Graham Platner is facing a sexual assault allegation from a woman who previously dated him. The woman, Jenny Racicot, told Politico that Platner drunkenly forced her to have sex after she told him to stop in 2021.

Allegation and Response

Platner denied the allegation, but said he would be considering next steps for his campaign. “Regardless of the inaccuracy of the reporting but mindful of the political reality it will inflict, we’re taking the time to reflect on the best path forward,” he said in a video released on social media.

Racicot said she had been in an on-and-off relationship with Platner, but she cut off contact with him after that night and told him the interaction wasn’t consensual. She also said she opted not to fight back for fear of Platner, a former Marine, becoming more violent.

Democratic Party Response

The Democratic Party has begun to distance itself from Platner, with several prominent supporters pulling their endorsements. The main campaign arm of Senate Democrats called on Platner to drop out and said it would spend no money on the race if he is the nominee.

Rep. Ro Khanna, a California Democrat who had endorsed Platner, said, “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.”

Arizona Sen. Ruben Gallego and Massachusetts Sen. Elizabeth Warren also announced they were pulling their endorsements and called on Platner to drop out.

Next Steps

State law allows Platner to be replaced on the ballot if he withdraws by July 13. The replacement candidate must be named by July 27.

Original reporting: 40/29 / KHBS (NW Arkansas) — read the source article.