Graham Platner, the Democratic nominee for Senate in Maine, may be replaced on the ballot if he withdraws by the upcoming Monday. This scenario originates from a Politico report alleging sexual assault against Platner, which he denied. However, he has stated he needs time to contemplate his future in politics.
If Platner steps down, Maine Democrats face a two-week period until July 27 to choose a new nominee, as per state law. The process for selecting a replacement remains undefined; there are no specific guidelines. Kate McBrien, chief of staff to Shenna Bellows, the Maine Secretary of State, confirmed this lack of direction.
Democratic leaders in Maine, including party chairman Charles Dingman, have publicly urged Platner to exit the race. Discussions are underway regarding replacing Platner. Options include organizing a pop-up convention around July 25 or conducting a statewide caucus similar to a primary election. Using the state party’s committee, consisting of approximately 100 members, to select the nominee has been discarded.
Platner secured the Democratic primary victory last month following the campaign suspension of his main competitor, Gov. Janet Mills, who cited financial struggles. According to McBrien, no prior instances exist where a Maine candidate withdrew after winning a primary but before the general election.
Possible candidates for replacing Platner might encompass individuals who contested for the gubernatorial nomination and did not win. These include Shenna Bellows, Troy Jackson, a former president of the Maine Senate, and Nirav Shah, a former director of Maine’s public health agency. Jordan Wood, who recently lost a primary for a House district in northern Maine, might also be considered. Gov. Mills is presently viewed as an unlikely choice; she has not responded to recent communications.
Reid J. Epstein, a reporter for the Times, covers campaigns and elections from Washington.
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