Maine Democratic Senate candidate Graham Platner is reportedly weighing whether to end his campaign against incumbent Republican Sen. Susan Collins, but not before attempting to influence who could take his place if he steps aside.
According to The New York Post, which cited a source familiar with internal campaign discussions, Platner has been meeting with campaign staff and political strategist Morris Katz to debate whether remaining in the race is still viable. The report says Platner would consider withdrawing only if a replacement candidate shares his policy positions and political priorities.
On your permanent record, Einstein https://t.co/LjfzS0CQty
— Mark R. Levin (@marklevinshow) July 7, 2026
The New York Times was the first to report that discussions about Platner's future were taking place behind the scenes, as pressure on his campaign continues to mount.
The uncertainty follows a series of public allegations made by Platner's former girlfriend, who has accused him of raping her in 2021. Platner has denied wrongdoing. In the aftermath of the allegations, the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, and other Democratic leaders withdrew their endorsements of his candidacy.
Ro Conman could accept every disgusting aspect of the former Nazi turned Communist scumbag, but Ro has now withdrawn his coveted endorsement. What a principled statesman. https://t.co/2hlUTg8Aa2
— Mark R. Levin (@marklevinshow) July 7, 2026
The source quoted by The New York Post claimed that Platner believes any potential replacement would still value his endorsement despite the controversy.
"He assumes whoever might replace him would want a rapist's endorsement," the source told the newspaper.
Poor vetting? They knew about the Nazi tattoo, the sexting, and Reddit post for months?
They just didn't care but it was the right time to dump him because he was cratering in the polls https://t.co/ZGmZTclapW
— Ryan James Girdusky (@RyanGirdusky) July 7, 2026
The same source was sharply critical of Platner's campaign operation, arguing that key advisers remain disconnected from the political reality facing the candidate.
"His team is delusional," the source said, adding that Katz—a former campaign adviser to New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani—continues to recommend that Platner stay in the race despite the growing fallout.
Deluzio donated to and endorsed Platner https://t.co/fozCwMoDlm
— Elijah Cohen (@PA_Capitol_Boy) July 7, 2026
As speculation continues over whether Platner will remain the Democratic nominee, his campaign has remained largely silent. Representatives for the campaign did not immediately respond to requests for comment regarding the reported discussions or the claims made by the anonymous source.
Elizabeth Warren on Graham Platner: "That's my kind of man." pic.twitter.com/sDXhnVzYRd
— MAZE (@mazemoore) July 6, 2026
Whether Platner ultimately stays in the race or steps aside, the reports suggest Democratic leaders are already preparing for the possibility that the party may need a new nominee to challenge Collins in November.
