WASHINGTON — Democrats are giving Graham Platner, who faces accusations of sexual misconduct, a two-week window to find a replacement if he decides to drop out of the Senate race in Maine.
Reports indicate that Platner is attempting to work out a deal with party leaders while he considers his options, hoping to identify a successor who aligns with his progressive beliefs if he exits.
While Senate Democratic officials have largely stayed out of the situation following their support for Governor Janet Mills’ unsuccessful primary, key former supporters of Platner are seeking new candidates.
If Platner officially withdraws by 5 PM on July 13, the Maine Democratic Party will have a fortnight to select a new candidate, although the process for making this decision hasn’t been clearly outlined.
Several candidates are already positioning themselves for a run against incumbent Republican Susan Collins, and here’s a look at some of the promising individuals in the mix.
Troy Jackson
Troy Jackson, a lumberjack and former Maine Senate president, has emerged as a top candidate to replace Platner if he steps down. He briefly ran for governor earlier this year but his campaign didn’t succeed, despite backing from Senator Bernie Sanders.
During his gubernatorial bid, Jackson focused on reducing property taxes, lowering prescription drug prices, and establishing an affordable housing authority.
His political journey began as a Republican before he transitioned to independent status ahead of his election to the state House in 2002, subsequently becoming a Democrat. Jackson gained attention during a 1998 protest over preferential treatment for contractors over local loggers.
After the recent allegations against Platner surfaced, Jackson publicly withdrew his support, stating that political circles should have no tolerance for sexual violence.
Shena Bellows
Shena Bellows, currently serving as Maine’s Secretary of State, previously ran against Collins in 2014 and suffered a 37-point loss.
Bellows also participated in the gubernatorial primary last month, finishing in fourth place. She has a history of making headlines, including attempts to bar Trump from the state’s 2024 presidential primary, a ruling later overturned by the Supreme Court.
Following Platner’s allegations, Bellows echoed Jackson’s call for him to withdraw, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation.
Jordan Wood
Jordan Wood, who previously sought the Senate then shifted focus to Maine’s 2nd Congressional District race, is also eyeing the Senate nomination.
He expressed willingness to accept the candidacy if his fellow Democrats choose him as the most viable candidate against Collins. Wood has championed various progressive initiatives, including Medicare for All.
Nirav Shah
Nirav Shah, a former director at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, has announced that he’s considering entering the race if Platner steps aside. He placed second in Maine’s recent gubernatorial primary.
Shah insisted that any candidate must commit to debates and public engagements across the state, stressing the importance of connecting with constituents.
Given the significance of Maine’s Senate race for the Democratic Party, with control of the Senate at stake, candidates are feeling the pressure. Collins has consistently shown strong polling results despite Maine’s Democratic leanings.
