Platner was shielded by his genuine grassroots appeal, missteps by his opponents, and the understandable reticence of his alleged victims — until now.

Platner issued the statement shortly after the new allegation was made public Monday.

A woman has come forward to accuse Graham Platner, Maine’s Democratic candidate for Senate, of sexually assaulting her.

Some rushed to defend the embattled Senate nominee, while others called to move on given the severity of the allegations.

Platner is facing increasing pressure to drop out.