Several Democratic senators are being considered as potential replacements for Maine’s Sen. Graham Platner, particularly in light of a recent rape allegation from his ex-girlfriend, which has prompted speculation about his campaign future.
Maine law permits Platner to step down as the Democratic candidate by July 13 at 5 p.m. If he does so, the Maine Democratic Party must select a new candidate by July 27 to appear on the general election ballot.
Some local Democrats are emerging as candidates to run against incumbent Republican Sen. Susan Collins. Reports suggest Platner’s campaign might be contemplating resignation, but any successor would need to align with his political platform.
Troy Jackson
Troy Jackson, a former state Senate president and gubernatorial candidate, has been mentioned as a potential challenger. He noted he hadn’t considered this path before but would be interested if Platner resigns, asserting he’d be the best candidate. Jackson shares the backing of Vermont independent Sen. Bernie Sanders.
On Tuesday, it was reported that Jackson officially filed paperwork to be considered for the Senate, marking his first step as a candidate.
Jared Golden
Meanwhile, Rep. Jared Golden, who has represented Maine’s rural 2nd Congressional District since 2018, ruled out a Senate bid. The Marine veteran has also decided against seeking reelection and plans to retire from Congress when his term concludes next year.
A spokesperson for Golden emphasized he is distancing himself from speculation about running for the Senate seat.
Angus King III
Angus King III, son of U.S. Sen. Angus King and a past gubernatorial candidate, is reportedly considering entering the Senate race should Platner withdraw. King expressed that he’s contemplating how he might contribute meaningfully to Maine, rather than purely seeking office.
Janet Mills
Janet Mills, Maine’s current Democratic governor, suspended her Senate campaign earlier due to poor fundraising. Her governor’s term lasts until January, and in the recent primary, she garnered only 19.2% of the votes compared to Platner’s 72.1%.
Shena Bellows
Shena Bellows, Maine’s Secretary of State, is another name in the mix. Bellows previously gained national attention during her efforts to remove Donald Trump from Maine’s ballot in 2024. She has publicly called for Platner to resign following the serious allegations against him.
Sarah Gideon
Former Maine House Speaker Sarah Gideon, who aired her chances in 2020 against Susan Collins, is also recalled, especially since polls had shown her leading at one point.
Paige Loud
Following the news about Platner, Paige Loud, a social worker and recent Democratic primary candidate, announced his intention to run for the U.S. Senate in 2026, emphasizing the desire for a female candidate if Platner resigns.
Nirav Shah
Dr. Nirav Shah, who served as Maine’s CDC director and was vocal during the COVID-19 response, is gaining traction as a prospective successor. He mentioned receiving numerous supportive messages regarding Platner’s potential withdrawal and is weighing his options about running.
Shah identifies himself as a moderate yet isn’t shy about distancing from establishment politics.
Jordan Wood
Jordan Wood, a former chief of staff, had shifted his focus from running for the Senate to pursuing a congressional seat. He noted ongoing discussions with potential voters about running for an open Senate race if Platner were to leave the election.
David Costello
David Costello, a former deputy secretary in Maryland, is also running for the Senate seat despite finishing third in the previous primary. He remains optimistic about his candidacy even if Platner drops out.
Dan Kleban
Lastly, Dan Kleban, co-founder of a well-known brewery, is receiving encouragement to consider running again. Maine’s Democrats must follow internal rules to choose a successor, which remains somewhat ambiguous.
The Maine Democratic Party has stated they will keep the process open and inclusive in light of this unfolding situation, allowing voices within the party to guide the nomination process.
