Allegation Against Maine Senate Candidate

Jenny Racicot accused Graham Platner of sexual assault in an interview with CNN’s Jake Tapper, aired on Monday. She alleged the assault occurred in 2021 at her home, describing the incident as rape. Ms. Racicot detailed a violent struggle, during which a sewing cabinet was knocked over, causing a needle to stick in her leg.

The allegations have led to calls from Democrats for Mr. Platner to withdraw from the Maine Senate race. In response, Mr. Platner, 41, denied all accusations of nonconsensual behavior, labeling them as ‘categorically false’ through a social media video posted on Monday.

Ms. Racicot recounted meeting Mr. Platner on a dating app in 2019 and described him as ‘intelligent’ and ‘charming’ but noted his use of alcohol. She stated that in 2021, he informed her he intended to visit her home via text message. Despite her response telling him not to come over, she claimed he appeared at her door uninvited half an hour later.

According to Ms. Racicot, Mr. Platner entered her unlocked home and jumped on top of her while she lay on the couch, suggesting sexual intentions. These details were part of her effort to recount events she has tried to forget over the years.