Maine Democrats have few tools at their disposal to force Democratic Senate nominee Graham Platner to exit the race. Platner has until July 13 to withdraw his bid to unseat Sen. Susan Collins (R-ME), which would give the state party committee until July 27 to name a replacement. The Maine oyster farmer, who was accused by a woman he dated of sexually assaulting her while drunk five years ago, is under pressure from Democrats across the spectrum to step aside following the revelation.
Democrats have already begun using what leverage they do have. The Maine Democratic Party has withdrawn its support, and the Democratic National Committee has paused its digital fundraising ads.Even if Platner remains on the ballot, Democrats still control many of the resources needed to mount a competitive Senate campaign. National and state party committees, allied outside groups, and major donors can choose to withhold financial support, staff, and independent expenditures, effectively leaving Platner to wage an underfunded campaign against Collins. Platner, who had $2.2 million on hand as of May, could face an even steeper uphill battle against the well-funded incumbent if Democrats ultimately refuse to invest in the race.
