Bernie Sanders tells Graham Platner to drop out of Maine Senate race 07.07.2026

Senator Bernie Sanders has officially urged Maine Senate candidate Graham Platner to withdraw from the upcoming midterm election race. This significant political development follows serious sexual assault allegations made by Jenny Racicot, a woman Platner previously dated, who claims he forced her into sexual intercourse approximately five years ago. While Platner has denied these accusations, the scandal has severely damaged his campaign to unseat longtime Republican Senator Susan Collins. Sanders, a key progressive ally, stated on July 7 that he recommended Platner step aside to consider the best path forward for Maine. This move follows similar calls for resignation from New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani. As this race is critical for determining Senate control in November, Maine Democrats now have until July 27 to select a replacement candidate to contest the seat.












