AUGUSTA, MAINE (VINnews) – The Maine Democratic Party is scrambling to replace its embattled U.S. Senate nominee Graham Platner following fresh sexual assault allegations, but Platner is digging in, setting up a bitter internal showdown with just days until a critical deadline.

Platner, who cruised to victory in the June 9 Democratic primary with about 72% of the vote against weakened opposition, faces mounting pressure to step aside after a Politico report detailed accusations from a former girlfriend, Jenny Racicot, who alleged he assaulted her in 2021. Platner has categorically denied the claims, calling any accusation of non-consensual behavior “false.”

The state party leadership swiftly called for Platner to withdraw, issuing a statement standing with survivors and emphasizing the need to focus on defeating incumbent Republican Sen. Susan Collins in November. Party officials have stressed that Platner has until 5 p.m. Monday to formally notify the Maine Secretary of State of his withdrawal, allowing the party until July 27 to name a replacement.

Platner, a Marine veteran and oyster farmer known for his progressive, anti-establishment populist campaign endorsed by figures like Sen. Bernie Sanders, has signaled he is evaluating his options but is not ready to exit quietly. According to reports, he is demanding a role in selecting any potential successor and wants assurances that a replacement aligns with his “values and vision.”

The Maine Democratic Party has pushed back firmly. Executive Director Devon Murphy-Anderson stated that Platner’s team has “no role” in determining the next nominee or the selection process, which the party aims to make “open, inclusive, transparent and fair.”

The high-stakes race is seen as pivotal for Democratic hopes of regaining control of the Senate. Collins, a longtime moderate Republican, has proven resilient in past elections despite Democratic targeting. Political observers say Platner’s continued presence on the ballot would significantly boost Collins’ reelection odds, as national and state Democrats have already begun withholding support and resources.

Potential replacements floated in discussions include former Gov. Janet Mills, who suspended her primary bid earlier this year, along with other state Democrats. However, the compressed timeline and lack of a clear process have fueled further internal friction.

Platner’s campaign has built a strong grassroots network but has been dogged by prior controversies, including past online comments and other personal allegations. His refusal to step aside immediately has deepened divisions within the party as it races against the clock.

As the Monday deadline looms, Maine Democrats are caught in what one observer described as an internal war, with the future of their Senate challenge hanging in the balance.