Graham Platner, once a celebrated oysterman turned congressional hopeful from Maine, is facing a perilous decline in support following a fresh wave of serious allegations. His campaign, already marred by previous scandals, was further tainted when POLITICO reported new claims that he coerced Jenny Racicot, a woman he dated in 2021, into a non-consensual sexual encounter. Platner has denied these allegations.

The political fallout was swift, with a diverse group of Democrats withdrawing their support, urging Platner to step aside. This includes his previously steadfast allies and party leaders who had only recently endorsed him after their preferred candidate, Gov. Janet Mills, halted her campaign. The urgency within the Democratic Party to replace him is driven by the need to unseat GOP Sen. Susan Collins in the upcoming elections, seen as vital for Democrats to regain control of the Senate.

Under Maine law, Democrats have the option to replace Platner on the ballot if he resigns by July 13. Should he withdraw, the party faces a short and intense period until July 27 to select a new candidate, setting the stage for potential intra-party conflicts.

Among those considered for Platner’s replacement are Secretary of State Shenna Bellows and former public health official Nirav Shah, both reportedly in discussions for the role. Additionally, Rep. Ro Khanna, previously a campaign trail companion of Platner, has now endorsed Troy Jackson, a former gubernatorial candidate backed by Sen. Bernie Sanders.

Meanwhile, key figures like Sens. Elizabeth Warren and Martin Heinrich have joined the chorus asking for Platner’s resignation. The Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee, led by Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, has also threatened to withdraw funding for the Maine Senate race if Platner remains a candidate.

Despite the growing pressure, Platner has not indicated a decision to suspend his campaign. In a recent video statement, he mentioned taking time to reflect on his political future, leaving his supporters and detractors in a state of suspense as the deadline for withdrawal approaches.

Other Developments to Watch:

— Next CBC Chair in Sight: Rep. Troy Carter emerges as a leading candidate to lead the Congressional Black Caucus, bolstered by his ties with potential speaker Hakeem Jeffries and his proactive stance on redistricting issues in Louisiana.

— Calls for Greater Accountability on Capitol Hill: Following recent resignations over sexual misconduct, a collective of 1,500 Capitol Hill staff members is demanding better enforcement of misconduct accountability from congressional oversight bodies.