Graham Platner, the Democratic Senate candidate in Maine who faced a rape accusation and harsh criticism for his anti-Israel views, has withdrawn from the race, according to Israeli media reports citing ynet.
Graham Platner, the Democratic candidate for the U.S. Senate in Maine who drew sharp criticism for his anti-Israel views, has withdrawn from the race following a rape allegation, according to Israeli media reports citing ynet.
Platner, a military veteran and political newcomer, won the Democratic primary in June with roughly 75% of the vote. In the weeks following, he faced mounting pressure from party leaders to drop out after a woman accused him of rape in a CNN interview. As The Zioneer reported, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, Senator Bernie Sanders, and the Maine Democratic Party each called for his withdrawal. The allegations and Platner's past controversial statements on Israel had made him a divisive figure within the party.
The withdrawal leaves the Democratic Party without a candidate to challenge incumbent Republican Senator Susan Collins in the November midterm election, though the party may select a replacement.
- DevelopingMaine Democratic Party calls for Senate candidate Graham Platner to drop out after rape allegation, victim speaks to CNN
- DevelopingBernie Sanders, Zohran Mamdani join calls for Senate candidate Graham Platner to drop out
- StrongGraham Platner wins Maine Senate primary, will face Susan Collins
- DevelopingMaine primary winner stumbles when asked about alleged Nazi tattoo on national TV
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