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Platner should drop out of Maine’s US Senate race after sexual assault allegation, Sanders says
By ABC at KSTP 5 Eyewitness News (ABC)
· July 7, 2026
· 6 min read
PORTLAND, Maine (AP) — Sen. Bernie Sanders on Tuesday became the latest and most notable lawmaker to pull support for Maine Democratic U.S. Senate nominee Graham Platner following an allegation of sexual assault, adding to a chorus of calls for him to step aside as party leaders scramble to deter...
Key takeaway Susan Collins, but he said in a statement that he spoke with the candidate and “in light of these very serious allegations, I have recommended that he step aside.
Why this matters in The Minneapolis
In the Twin Cities, where voters are keenly aware of the national implications of local elections, the developments in Maine's US Senate race have significant resonance. As Minneapolis residents consider the potential consequences of a Democratic majority in the Senate, the controversy surrounding Graham Platner's campaign serves as a stark reminder of the complexities of electoral politics. The fact that Platner's alleged behavior has sparked a heated debate within the Democratic Party, with progressive groups demanding a similarly aligned replacement candidate, underscores the deep divisions within the party. For Minneapolis voters who have grown accustomed to robust primary contests and grassroots activism, the unfolding drama in Maine will likely be watched with great interest, particularly as local candidates and party leaders navigate their own relationships with national figures like Bernie Sanders.
About this story
Original reporting by KSTP 5 Eyewitness News (ABC) . The Minneapolis surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit KSTP 5 Eyewitness News (ABC) . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: local ·
Published: July 7, 2026 ·
Source: KSTP 5 Eyewitness News (ABC) ·
Reading time: 6 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? PORTLAND, Maine (AP) — Sen. Bernie Sanders on Tuesday became the latest and most notable lawmaker to pull support for Maine Democratic U.S. Senate nominee Graham Platner following an allegation of sexual assault, adding to a chorus of calls for him to step aside as party leaders scramble to deter...
When was this published? This article was first published on July 7, 2026 by KSTP 5 Eyewitness News (ABC) and curated for The Minneapolis readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by ABC at KSTP 5 Eyewitness News (ABC). To learn more about how The Minneapolis selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more local coverage from The Minneapolis, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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