A Statement on the Allegations Against Graham Platner and the Future of the Maine Senate Race
Over the course of his Senate campaign, Graham Platner had battled back against a series of misconduct allegations. On each occasion, he promised voters that he had learned from his mistakes and grown as an individual. Here at Every State, we welcome opportunities for personal development, but this time, the allegations brought against him are credible and inexcusable.
Whether it is an abusive relationship or a case taken straight out of the Epstein files, we stand with survivors and are dedicated to delivering justice to every single victim of sexual assault and exploitation. No exceptions.
We also believe the people of Maine deserve principled senators with the judgment to take on the moral corruption unleashed by Donald Trump and his MAGA sycophants in Washington. As we already know, Susan Collins is not up to that job, but unfortunately, neither is Graham Platner.
Nevertheless, we must also recognize the platform that propelled him to a record-breaking victory in the Maine Democratic primary: one dedicated to establishing universal healthcare, raising the federal minimum wage, protecting the environment, ending forever wars, and restoring reproductive rights in every state.
This is still a future worth fighting for.
Make no mistake; Platner’s reported behavior is unacceptable, but these allegations are not an indictment against the popular causes he supported.
Ultimately, this campaign was never any one person or candidate, but a grassroots movement led by everyday citizens fighting for positive change in their state and local communities. We must not let the personal scandals of any one particular person distract us from the essential work of unseating Susan Collins and building an America that works for everyone.
Platner was not the right person to carry that torch, but Mainers need leaders ready to deliver on the promises establishment politicians have long since abandoned. Leaders whom they can trust to do the right thing without hesitation.
Democrats remain in a historically strong position heading into November, with the chance to flip both the House and Senate. This mission is too important to be derailed by a single headline or the actions of one man, and that is why we believe Graham Platner should step aside while there is still time to choose a replacement.
In that request, we would additionally ask that the future nominee embrace the same working-class agenda Democratic voters overwhelmingly endorsed in the primary election. After all, Mainers deserve nothing less than a candidate who is willing to fight for the causes that matter most to them.
Now, it’s time for us to get back to work.
