Democrat Graham Platner suspends campaign for key US Senate race after assault allegation
The decision came days after a woman accused him of sexual assault, an accusation he says is "categorically false".
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Notable Quotes
"My decision was not an admission of guilt but due to Democrats' threats to cut off campaign support."
— Graham Platner , Politician
"It needs to be open, transparent, and democratic."
— Graham Platner , Politician
Key People
Independent Senator who endorsed Graham Platner.
Elizabeth Warren is the top Democrat on the Senate Banking Committee.
Senate candidate and oyster farmer who won the Democratic primary in Maine.
Governor of Maine who dropped out of the Senate race.
Democratic senator from New Mexico.
A California Democrat opposing military action against Iran.
Democratic congressman from Arizona.
Longtime Republican Senator from Maine who has served nearly 30 years.
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The decision came days after a woman accused him of sexual assault, an accusation he says is "categorically false".
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Top Democrats press Maine senate candidate to drop out of race over sexual assault allegation
Graham Platner denied the allegation, calling it "categorically false" but said he was "taking the time to reflect on the best path forward" in the race.
July 7, 2026 at 03:04 AMDemocratic Party leaders urge Platner to end Senate campaign amid sexual assault allegations - Reuters
Democratic Party leaders urge Platner to end Senate campaign amid sexual assault allegations Reuters
July 6, 2026 at 08:23 PMPlatner's disastrous candidacy exposes rifts that could dampen Democrats' Senate hopes
Along with creating tumult in a must-win race for Democrats, Graham Platner's exit is laying bare division between the party's left wing and moderates.
July 9, 2026 at 06:28 AMMaine Senate candidate Graham Platner formally withdraws from race - Reuters
Maine Senate candidate Graham Platner formally withdraws from race Reuters
July 10, 2026 at 10:42 PMWith Graham Platner's exit from Senate race looming, Democrats line up to replace him
Democrats in Maine are already competing to get their name on the ballot and take on incumbent Republican Senator Susan Collins in November.
July 10, 2026 at 12:07 AMBernie Sanders urges Platner to quit Maine Senate race as Democrats vie to succeed him - Reuters
Bernie Sanders urges Platner to quit Maine Senate race as Democrats vie to succeed him Reuters
July 7, 2026 at 11:53 PM