Graham Platner Ends Campaign Following Assault Allegation

Graham Platner has halted his troubled campaign after being accused of sexual assault by a former partner.

Before this shocking announcement, he was working to support Democrats in regaining Senate control by challenging Maine Republican Senator Susan Collins during the midterms.

In a statement made on Wednesday, Platner mentioned he was taking a step back from the race, saying, “My name may be on the ballot, but that ballot belongs to the people of Maine.” He added that any future actions should come from the people of Maine.

He expressed doubt about his ability to continue despite feeling uniquely positioned in this race, which led him to suspend his campaign.

Platner has denied the claims made by his former girlfriend from nearly five years ago and has publicly refuted her allegations, labeling them as false.

In his response, Platner characterized the accusations as “troubling, serious, and false,” while also indicating contemplation of expulsion. He stated, “Despite the inaccuracies in the reporting and its political implications, we’re reflecting on how to proceed.” His announcement on Wednesday coincided with growing calls from fellow Democrats for him to resign.

His campaign faced challenges from the start, with controversies that included a Nazi-related tattoo and claims of infidelity while married.

Additionally, recent polling showed that Platner had a slim lead over Collins, just two points, which was within the margin of error. He attributed some of his previous behavior to mental health struggles stemming from military service in Iraq and Afghanistan.