After months of standing by him through a string of controversies, Senator Bernie Sanders has now publicly urged Democratic Senate candidate Graham Platner to step aside.

Platner had already faced intense scrutiny over a chest tattoo resembling the Nazi SS Totenkopf symbol, resurfaced online comments that downplayed sexual assault concerns, and multiple allegations from women accusing him of abusive behavior. He has denied wrongdoing and said the tattoo was obtained while drunk without understanding its meaning.  

Now, following a new sexual assault allegation from a former girlfriend, Democrats are finally starting to distance themselves.

Sanders released the following statement:

“I have spoken with Graham Platner about the best path forward for Maine. In light of these very serious allegations, I have recommended that he step aside.”

Critics note that Sanders continued backing Platner through earlier controversies, but argue the loss of party support and campaign donations following the latest allegation ultimately made his candidacy politically unsustainable.