Washington — Democrats are grappling with the narrowing timeframe to replace Maine Senate candidate Graham Platner. This follows a sexual assault allegation, which poses a significant challenge in one of the year’s most closely watched Senate races. National Democrats aim to prevent Republican Sen. Susan Collins from securing a sixth term.
Platner is under immense pressure from both the Maine Democratic Party and top national Democrats to drop out of the race. The Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee has vowed not to invest in Platner’s campaign. This stance followed an allegation from Jenny Racicot, a former girlfriend, accusing Platner of a 2021 sexual assault. Platner denied the allegation on Monday.
Despite past scandals, including explicit text allegations and online misconduct, Platner remains in the race. He apologized for many of his comments, attributing his behavior to PTSD from military service.
Replacement Process
Under state law, Platner has until Monday, July 13, to withdraw and remove his name from the ballot. If he withdraws in time, the Maine Democratic Party can select a replacement by July 27 at 5 p.m. The law mandates that new ballots be prepared if a nominee is replaced.
The specific replacement process remains unclear. Dan Shea, a political science professor at Colby College, anticipates a convention of party officials. The aim would likely be a process both open and democratic, though quick.
The Maine Democratic Party has not outlined its procedure for selecting a new nominee. Executive Director Devon Murphy-Anderson assured that if needed, the process would be “open, transparent, and inclusive” with active participation from Mainers and Democratic voters.
Potential Replacements
The party has yet to decide on a replacement candidate. Platner secured 72% in the previous primary. Former Gov. Janet Mills, a previous contender, suspended her campaign before the primary. Her interest in the Senate race remains uncertain.
The Democratic primary for governor had more candidates. Possible Senate nominees include Maine Secretary of State Shenna Bellows, past state Senate President Troy Jackson, and former Maine CDC Director Nirav Shah. State House Speaker Hannah Pingree won the gubernatorial primary.
Bellows, Jackson, and Shah urged Platner to step down. Jackson, once an ally, expressed interest in running, stating he believes himself the best replacement. He filed with the Federal Election Commission to explore a Senate bid.
Shah has also shown interest, noting support from the public. He advocates for a transparent selection process involving at least one televised debate.
Internal Party Dynamics
High-profile Democrats in Maine include Rep. Jared Golden and state Sen. Joe Baldacci. Golden decided not to seek reelection in his district, while Baldacci expressed no interest in stepping in for Platner.
Progressive groups previously supportive of Platner desire a nominee who shares his political views. “Our Revolution” Executive Director Joseph Geevarghese warned against a status-quo candidate. Alternatives suggested by Adam Green of the Progressive Change Campaign Committee include a disruptive figure challenging powerful interests.
Baldacci emphasized the need for an independently-minded replacement, distinct from Platner.
Impact on Senate Race
The Democratic nominee will compete against Collins in November. Collins, a moderate Republican, has held her own against Democratic opponents in the blue-leaning state. Her past victories include an 8.6-point margin over Democratic nominee Sara Gideon in 2020.
Collins’ success is partly due to her strong campaigns and perceived effectiveness in securing federal funds for Maine. Political science professor Ronald Schmidt noted Collins’ adeptness at reelection campaigns. Her repeated successes owe to a loyal voter base.
Despite current challenges, Democrats could still present a formidable competition to Collins. Shea suggested that replacing Platner might even enhance their chances. Concerns over Platner’s character possibly prevented some voters from embracing him fully.
Daniel Gómez and Gabe Kaminsky contributed to this report.
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