Maine Democrat quits Senate race, party seeks replacement

Graham Platner, the Democratic nominee for Maine's U.S. Senate seat, formally withdrew from the race on July -8, 2026, following a series of personal scandals including recent allegations of sexual assault, which he has denied. His departure, confirmed in a letter to the Maine Secretary of State's office, has triggered an urgent search for a replacement with less than four months until the November election, where the Democratic candidate will face Republican incumbent Senator Susan Collins.

Platner, a 41-year-old oysterman and military veteran, had won the Democratic primary in June with approximately 72% of the vote, defeating Governor Janet Mills. His campaign, which drew significant support from progressives and independents, focused on issues like national healthcare, criticism of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and Palestinian rights. His swift political downfall began last week when a former partner publicly accused him of sexual assault, adding to previous allegations of volatile behavior in past relationships and admissions of infidelity.

The Maine Democratic Party now has until July 27 to name a replacement candidate, who will be chosen by approximately 600...