The Democratic Party in Maine is facing a crucial decision regarding their Senate candidate, Graham Platner, amidst allegations of sexual assault. Platner’s candidacy has come under scrutiny due to the allegations made by Jenny Racicot, who claims Platner assaulted her in 2021—a claim he denies.
The controversy has stirred significant pressure from both the Maine Democratic Party and national Democrats, including a pledge from the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee not to invest in Platner’s campaign. The urgency of the situation is amplified by the upcoming deadline for Platner to withdraw, according to Maine state law. He has until July 13 to remove his name from the ballot, allowing the party to nominate a replacement by July 27 at 5 p.m.
The Secretary of State will produce or amend general election ballots if a replacement nomination is made by the deadline.
However, the method by which the Maine Democratic Party would select a new nominee has not been specified. Dan Shea, a political science professor at Colby College, suggests that the party may opt for a nominating convention, although details remain tentative. In a statement, Executive Director Devon Murphy-Anderson emphasized an inclusive process with broad participation from Mainers and Democratic voters.
A similar situation unfolded nationally when President Joe Biden withdrew from his reelection bid, resulting in Vice President Kamala Harris’ nomination. Shea notes that Maine Democrats may bear in mind the controversy over Harris’s nomination process.
Potential replacements for Platner are yet unknown. Platner won last month’s primary with 72% of the vote, but former Governor Janet Mills may be reconsidering her earlier decision to suspend her campaign. Other candidates include Maine Secretary of State Shenna Bellows, former state Senate President Troy Jackson, and former Maine CDC Director Nirav Shah, all of whom called on Platner to drop out.
Jackson, backed by independent Sen. Bernie Sanders, expressed his interest in stepping in and has filed with the Federal Election Commission for an exploratory committee. Shah also voiced interest in running with a platform advocating for transparency and public engagement.
High-profile state Democrats like moderate Rep. Jared Golden and state Sen. Joe Baldacci round out potential candidates. National progressive groups have remarked that a new nominee should align with Platner’s political stance. They discouraged picking establishment candidates, emphasizing the need for innovation.
The Democratic Party asserts Platner will not influence the choice of his replacement. The eventual nominee will face Republican Sen. Susan Collins, noted for her effectiveness in securing federal funding for Maine.
Ronald Schmidt, a political science professor at the University of Southern Maine, believes a victory against Collins will be challenging, given her proven record. He predicts competitiveness is still possible if Democrats muster substantial voter turnout.
Dan Shea contends Platner’s exit might enhance the Democrats’ chances, as voters are still inclined toward change but concerned about Platner’s character. This scenario might turn out advantageous for the Democratic Party.
This report includes contributions from Daniel Gómez and Gabe Kaminsky.