July 6, 2026

Graham Platner Reflects on Campaign Amid New Sexual Assault Allegation and Pressure to Withdraw

Graham Platner is accused of sexual assault by Jenny Racicot, who claims he raped her while he was heavily intoxicated in 2018; Platner denies the allegations, calling them 'categorically false.'
As the July 13 deadline approaches for potential withdrawal from the race, pressure mounts from some Democrats and organizations for Platner to step aside, with possible replacements being discussed.
Platner acknowledges that the allegations could hinder his campaign against Republican Sen. Susan Collins, stating he is reflecting on the best path forward.

13 Sources

Platner says he is ‘taking the time to reflect’ on his candidacy
Jul 6, 2026 at 7:56 PM · Politico
Platner Senate campaign taking 'time to reflect' on path forward after sexual assault allegation
Jul 6, 2026 at 8:02 PM · CNBC
Platner 'taking the time to reflect on the best path forward' in Maine Senate race after assault allegation
Jul 6, 2026 at 8:06 PM · The Hill
Platner says he's taking time to consider future of Maine Senate bid
Jul 6, 2026 at 8:07 PM · Axios
Platner denies sexual assault allegation, but says he will assess 'best path forward'
Jul 6, 2026 at 8:09 PM · NPR
Woman accuses Maine Senate candidate Graham Platner of sexual assault
Jul 6, 2026 at 8:11 PM · The Guardian
Platner Reassesses Maine Senate Bid, Denies Sexual-Assault Allegation
Jul 6, 2026 at 8:13 PM · WSJ
Platner Will Take Time to ‘Reflect’ on Campaign After Sexual Assault Accusation
Jul 6, 2026 at 8:17 PM · NYT
Maine Democrat Platner says he will 'reflect' on Senate campaign, denies report on sex allegations
Jul 6, 2026 at 8:23 PM · Reuters
Graham Platner considering ‘best path forward’ in Maine Senate race after denying sexual assault claim
Jul 6, 2026 at 8:29 PM · NBC
Graham Platner says he's "taking the time to reflect on the best path forward" as sexual assault allegation emerges
Jul 6, 2026 at 8:46 PM · CBS News
Graham Platner says he is reflecting on ‘best path forward’ as pressure mounts to exit Maine Senate race
Jul 6, 2026 at 9:27 PM · CNN
Maine Democratic Senate candidate Graham Platner denies new allegations of sexual assault
Jul 6, 2026 at 9:31 PM · NBC