Platner bombshell leaves Democrats scrambling days before Maine ballot deadline

Published July 6, 2026 7:04pm ET



Senate Republicans have no idea who they will face this fall in Maine as bombshell allegations of sexual assault consume the campaign of Democratic nominee Graham Platner.

Platner announced he would take a break from the campaign trail Monday after a woman came forward alleging that he forced her to have nonconsensual sex. Platner, who denies the accusation, canceled his planned appearances and told supporters he would use the coming days to “reflect” on his candidacy.

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