Maine Democrats scramble as Senate candidate exits amid rape allegation

The race against three-term incumbent Republican Susan Collins is vital for Democratic control of the Senate, and the party now faces a July 27 deadline to field a new candidate. Among those entering the fray are lawyer and epidemiologist Nirav Shah, who is positioning himself as a champion for lower medical costs, and logger Troy Jackson, who has already secured endorsements from 54 local and state officials. The field also includes microbrewery co-owner Dan Kleban, former congressional staffer Jordan Wood, and social worker Paige Loud.

Platner’s exit followed intense scrutiny over his past, including offensive social media posts and a controversial tattoo. The final blow came after a former romantic partner, Jenny Racicot, accused him of rape—an allegation Platner has denied, attributing his past behavioral issues to struggles with alcohol and mental health following his military service in Iraq and Afghanistan. While Platner’s campaign reported $2.2 million on hand in May, federal rules limit how those funds can be transferred to his successor, adding a financial hurdle to the party’s sudden search for a new nominee.