Sexual Assault Allegation Tests Whether Maine Democrats Abandon Platner

Jenny Racicot accused Democratic Senate nominee Graham Platner of sexual assault in late 2021, according to Politico's July 6 report. Platner denies the claim. Unlike earlier controversies over texts and physical intimidation, an allegation of non-consensual sex typically compels party leadership to distance themselves or withdraw support. Whether the Democratic establishment does so will signal Platner's political viability against Republican Susan Collins in Maine.