Schumer Calls for Platner to Withdraw from Maine Senate Race Amid Allegations

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer has urged Graham Platner to withdraw from his campaign for the Maine Senate seat, following allegations of sexual assault against him. Schumer, along with Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, stated that Platner's withdrawal is necessary to allow Maine Democrats to select a new candidate capable of defeating incumbent Senator Susan Collins. The Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee (DSCC) has indicated it will not support the Maine Senate race if Platner remains on the ballot. Platner, who is considering his next steps, has denied the allegations and described them as categorically false. Maine law allows Democrats until July 13 for Platner to withdraw, with a two-week period for selecting a replacement nominee if he does. The Maine Democratic Party has also called for his withdrawal, and several prominent Democrats have rescinded their endorsements. As of now, Senators Elizabeth Warren and Bernie Sanders have not publicly called for Platner to end his campaign.