Platner Drops Senate Race Amid Assault Claims | New York City News

New York City News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now! · Jul 9, 2026 · 1m

Maine Senate hopeful Graham Platner drops out after a woman accuses him of sexual assault five years ago — a claim he denies but says has forced him to step aside. His exit throws a wrench into the race to unseat GOP Sen. Susan Collins, leaving Democrats until July 27 to pick a replacement. The accuser, Jenny Racicot, says Platner broke into her home and assaulted her, ignoring her pleas to stop. Platner’s campaign initially called the allegations “coordinated smears,” but mounting pressure — including endorsements rescinded by key figures and major PACs pulling funding — made continuing…