Potential Replacement of Graham Platner on Maine Ballot Sparks Speculation

The ongoing controversy surrounding Democratic Senate candidate Graham Platner has brought attention to a specific provision of Maine law. This provision could allow Democrats to replace him on the general election ballot after the primary.

Maine election law allows a nominee who withdraws after winning the primary to be replaced. A candidate who wins the June 9 primary and withdraws by 5 p.m. on July 13 can be replaced by a party-selected nominee. Any replacement must be chosen by 5 p.m. on July 27. This timeline offers Democrats 14 days to choose a replacement and gear up for the general election.

While there is no public indication of Democrats pursuing this strategy, the provision has stirred speculation. Concerns about Platner’s candidacy have grown due to several controversies.

Platner, a Marine veteran and oyster farmer, faces scrutiny over a tattoo linked to Nazi imagery. Criticism also arose from resurfaced Reddit posts where he made inflammatory comments about veterans, sexual assault, and political opponents. Reports also emerged about sexually explicit messages exchanged during his marriage.

Despite this, Platner maintains support from prominent Democrats. Sens. Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren have backed him. However, some party figures worry the allegations might affect efforts to challenge Sen. Susan Collins in a key Senate race.

Sen. Bernie Sanders and Democratic Senate candidate Graham Platner met during a “Fighting Oligarchy” tour at the University of Maine. (Joe Raedle/Getty Images)

Among Platner’s critics is Rep. Jake Auchincloss. He described Platner’s tattoo controversy as “personally disqualifying.” Additionally, ex-Maine state Rep. Genevieve McDonald resigned from Platner’s campaign, questioning his viability.

Maine law’s post-primary window for replacing Platner hinges on his voluntary withdrawal. However, overcoming political challenges in executing such a replacement remains significant. Platner is favored to win the June 9 primary, without evidence of organized attempts to remove him.

Despite the procedural option under Maine law, the political landscape may play a more crucial role. With former Gov. Janet Mills not running, much of the Democratic establishment supports Platner. National Democratic figures continue their backing despite controversies.

Currently, the potential replacement remains hypothetical. Democrats display little interest in changing the race without a major new development.

Amanda reports on the intersection of business and politics for Fox News Digital.