Maine's Platner weighs path ahead after new assault allegation

WASHINGTON - Graham Platner, the Democratic nominee for a US Senate seat against Republican incumbent Susan Collins in Maine, said in a social media video he would reflect on "the best path forward" given a new sexual assault allegation published by Politico, which he denied.

"Regardless of the inaccuracy of the reporting, but mindful of the political reality it will inflict, we are taking the time to reflect on the best path forward, for the state that I love, the people that I love, the movement I belong to, and the goal of defeating Susan Collins," he said.

Platner, a 41-year-old oysterman who has been plagued by a series of stories about his since-covered tattoo associated with Nazis, as well as accusations of troubling behavior from previous girlfriends, did not directly address the story in Politico, simply describing the "troubling, serious and false allegations against me."

Platner has one week to decide whether to drop out under state law. He would have to withdraw by 5 p.m. on July 13, with the state Democratic party then having two weeks to name a replacement candidate.

Maine's Senate seat is considered a must-win for Democrats hoping to retake the chamber in the November midterm elections.

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