Senator Bernie Sanders has withdrawn his endorsement of Maine Democratic Senate nominee Graham Platner after another alleged victim publicly came forward with sexual assault claims, a sharp about-face for the veteran progressive.
The decision came a day after Senator John Fetterman condemned Sanders for supporting Platner, intensifying pressure on the Vermont independent as more Democrats distance themselves from the troubled nominee.
In a statement released Tuesday morning, Sanders said, ‘I have spoken with Graham Platner about the best path forward for Maine. In light of these very serious allegations, I have recommended that he step aside.’
Speaking Monday night with Fox News host Laura Ingraham, Fetterman said his thoughts were with the woman who had come forward, commending her for the courage it took to share her account.
Fetterman, who continues to deal with lingering complications from a stroke, then directed his criticism at Sanders over the endorsement that helped elevate Platner’s candidacy.
‘But honestly, I would, I would really call Bernie Sanders to apologize for pushing this kind of predator more than anyone, he helped him elect, and now apologize to the victims, especially the woman that she claimed that he raped her,’ Fetterman said.
‘So I don’t know why you want to keep pushing these kinds of people. Maybe he should consider set a few out and stop pushing these kinds of communists and people.’
Sanders’ office did not respond to the Daily Mail’s request for comment regarding Fetterman’s remarks.
Jenny Racicot said in her CNN interview Monday night that Graham Platner allegedly sexually assaulted her in 2021 during a period when they were casually dating. Platner has denied the allegation
Sen. Bernie Sanders and Democratic US Senate candidate Graham Platner stand together during a “Fighting Oligarchy” tour stop.
Senator John Fetterman appeared on ‘The Ingraham Angle’ Monday night, demanding Senator Bernie Sanders apologize for backing ‘predator’ US Senate candidate Graham Platner
The controversy centers on an allegation made Monday by Jenny Racicot, a former girlfriend of Platner, who says he forced her to have sex during a 2021 encounter after she repeatedly told him to stop.
Racicot said Platner arrived at her home while intoxicated and described the encounter as nonconsensual. She said she waited to speak publicly because she struggled with the conflict between supporting some of his political views and coming forward with her allegation.
Platner has denied the accusation, calling it false and politically motivated.
But the allegation has sparked a political revolt, with several prominent Democrats withdrawing their support and demanding that Platner end his campaign.
Senator Elizabeth Warren revoked her endorsement and urged Platner to step down.
‘Now more than ever we need leaders in Washington who reflect our values,’ Warren said. ‘There can be no tolerance for sexual assault.’
She went on to say, ‘With so much at stake, the best path forward is for Graham Platner to step aside as the Democratic nominee and address these serious allegations outside this Senate race.’
Senator Ruben Gallego also rescinded his endorsement, writing: ‘The allegations against Graham Platner are troubling and deeply serious. I am rescinding my endorsement.’
Representative Ro Khanna followed, saying:
‘Graham Platner should drop out from the race. I am withdrawing my endorsement.’
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and Senator Kirsten Gillibrand also called on Platner to immediately withdraw in a joint statement, saying the allegations were ‘incredibly disturbing.’
The pair said the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee would not invest in the Maine Senate race if Platner remained on the ballot.
Senator Adam Schiff also called on Platner to end his campaign, saying the allegations were “deeply troubling” and praising the courage of the woman who came forward.
‘I urge Mr. Platner to consider what is best for Maine voters, and announce an end to his campaign.’
The Maine Democratic Party also joined the calls for him to leave the race.
New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani is the latest Democrat to call for Platner’s exit, saying it was time for him to drop out.
Sanders had strongly backed Platner during his campaign, appearing alongside him at rallies and defending him after reports last month circulated that involved sexually explicit text messages.
At the time, Sanders said he stood by his endorsement and argued voters should focus on economic issues rather than Platner’s personal life.
After the new allegation emerged, Sanders did not immediately reverse course. However, organizations connected to Sanders, including Our Revolution, withdrew their support.
The clock is now ticking for Platner’s campaign. If he withdraws by July 13, Maine Democrats can begin the process of selecting a replacement nominee before the general election.
The party would then have until July 27 to choose a new candidate.
