Platner Accused of Forced Encounter | Santa Fe News

A damning allegation has erupted against Maine Democratic Senate candidate Graham Platner, who is accused by a former partner of drunkenly forcing himself on her in 2021 — a claim he denies as “categorically false.” The revelation has triggered a swift political earthquake, with top Democratic leaders including Senators Gillibrand and Schumer demanding his immediate withdrawal from the race, threatening to cut off campaign funding. The Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee and key figures like Rep. Ro Khanna and Sen. Ruben Gallego have rescinded endorsements, while Maine state party leaders join the chorus urging Platner to step down. The woman, Jenny Racicot, said she didn’t resist due to fear of Platner’s military background and described the act as a multi-layered violation of consent. Platner, in a video, acknowledged the fallout but stood by his innocence. With his primary win now in jeopardy and state law allowing a replacement by July 13, the Democratic Party in Maine faces a critical race to find a new candidate to challenge Republican Senator Susan Collins — a race they’ve been counting on to flip. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/1939516735065c59