Platner sexual assault allegation

Graham Platner, the Democratic nominee for U.S. Senate in United States — Maine, faces a sexual assault allegation from former girlfriend Jenny Racicot, who says he forced himself on her in 2021. Platner denies the claim but is considering his campaign's future. The allegation has led to widespread calls for his withdrawal from Democratic leaders including Bernie Sanders, Chuck Schumer, Elizabeth Warren, and others, and the United States — Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee has threatened to withhold funding if he remains. Platner has until July 13 to withdraw for a replacement to be named. Potential replacements include Janet Mills, Troy Jackson, Nirav Shah, and Shenna Bellows. The scandal threatens Democratic hopes of flipping the seat held by Republican Susan Collins, which is critical to Senate control.