Graham Platner, the Democratic nominee challenging Maine's Republican Sen. Susan Collins, said he is "taking the time" to consider his campaign's future after a woman accused him of sexual assault. Politico reported Monday that a woman who dated Platner alleges he forced her to have sex with him nearly five years ago despite her objections. Platner has denied the allegation but acknowledged the political fallout.
Platner posted a statement on X saying he is "reflecting on the best path forward" for Maine, his supporters, and the goal of unseating Collins. The statement's use of past tense when referring to the campaign's mission — "we were united in a focus on defeating Susan Collins" — suggests he may be leaning toward dropping out. He stopped short, however, of explicitly ending his candidacy.
The allegation comes as Platner's bid to flip one of the Senate's most competitive seats had been gaining traction. Collins, a moderate Republican, has held the seat since 1997 and is considered a top target for Democrats in 2026. The race is rated as a toss-up by nonpartisan analysts, and Platner's withdrawal could upend Democratic plans for the seat.
Democrats now face an uncertain path in Maine. If Platner exits, state party officials would need to choose a replacement nominee or hold a new primary, potentially weakening the challenge against Collins. The Maine Democratic Party has not yet commented on the allegation or Platner's next steps.
Platner's denial remains the only competing narrative so far. "Regardless of the inaccuracy of the reporting," he wrote, "but mindful of the political reality it will inflict, we are taking the time to reflect." No other witnesses or evidence have been cited publicly.