The Hill
Platner’s unraveling may keep the Senate in play for Democrats
Graham Platner's Senate campaign is collapsing under the weight of a rape allegation from a former girlfriend, the most serious charge yet in a string of scandals that have dogged the Democratic nominee. Party leaders, who have long pressured Platner to exit the race, now appear closer to seeing that outcome materialize. His potential departure could reshape a contest that Democrats had all but written off, suddenly putting the seat back within competitive reach.
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The Hill
Bernie Sanders calls on Platner to drop out of Maine Senate race
Bernie Sanders publicly called on Graham Platner to exit the Maine Senate race following a report alleging the Democratic candidate sexually assaulted a woman in 2021. Sanders, who had previously backed Platner's campaign, made his position clear after speaking directly with the candidate. The development marks a significant blow to Platner's bid and signals the party's effort to contain the fallout ahead of a competitive race.
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The Hill
Live updates: Platner assessing ‘path’ as new assault allegations surface; Trump explains call to FIFA over Balogun red card
Graham Platner, the Democratic Maine Senate candidate, denied newly surfaced sexual assault allegations on Monday, calling claims of non-consensual behavior "categorically false" while signaling uncertainty about the campaign's future. The candidate's vague reference to finding "the best path forward" raises questions about whether he will remain in the race. Separately, President Trump confirmed he personally contacted FIFA regarding a red card issued to U.S. soccer player Folarin Balogun, injecting the White House into an international sporting dispute.
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The Hill
Senate Democrats’ campaign arm calls for Platner to drop out of Maine race
Senate Democrats' top brass are moving swiftly to cut ties with Maine Senate candidate Graham Platner, with Chuck Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand jointly demanding he exit the race following disturbing allegations. The DSCC leaders cited reports of violence, abuse, and sexual assault as grounds for his immediate withdrawal. The rare public pressure from party leadership signals Democrats are unwilling to defend the seat at the cost of the candidate's continued presence on the ballot.
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