Graham Platner, a U.S. Senate candidate from Maine, is facing new allegations of misconduct as a crucial campaign deadline approaches. Just 24 hours after being accused of rape, Platner has been implicated in another incident involving sexual impropriety.
A report by The Washington Post details accusations from Platner’s ex-girlfriend, Lyndsey Fifield. She claims he removed condoms during intercourse, despite her explicit requests to use them. “He would pull condoms off,” Fifield stated. “He would do it in a sneaky way. He wouldn’t tell me.”
Fifield, 41, has previously alleged that Platner was physically abusive during their relationship. She described incidents of him grabbing her hard enough to leave marks and twisting her arm behind her back. Some of Platner’s supporters dismissed these claims, branding Fifield as a conservative operative due to her past work at The Heritage Foundation.
Platner, a Democratic candidate aiming to unseat Republican Senator Susan Collins, has faced these accusations as his campaign continues to struggle with scandal. In reaction to the new allegations, Platner’s campaign has labeled them as “categorically false and politically motivated.”
Earlier in the week, another woman, Jenny Racicot, accused Platner of rape. Racicot claimed that in 2021, Platner entered her home while inebriated and assaulted her. She recalls Platner being forceful, stating he did not stop despite her objections. “I remember him grabbing my pelvis and being really forceful,” Racicot explained. Platner has denied these allegations in a public statement.
The pressure for Platner to withdraw from the race is mounting. He has until 5 p.m. on July 13 to exit, allowing the Democratic Party to choose a replacement candidate. Following these allegations, several prominent supporters have rescinded their endorsements and urged Platner to step down. Notable figures include Senators Elizabeth Warren and Bernie Sanders.
“Now more than ever, we need leaders in Washington who reflect our values. There can be no tolerance for sexual assault,” stated Warren. She emphasized the importance of winning the Senate seat to challenge former President Donald Trump, suggesting Platner should step aside.
Sanders has echoed this sentiment, advocating for Platner to withdraw. “In light of these very serious allegations, I have recommended that he step aside,” Sanders said.
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