Maine Democrat Platner exits Senate race after rape allegation

In Maine, a Democratic Senate candidate's ambitions came to an abrupt end this week when a rape allegation surfaced against Graham Platner, who had sought to challenge incumbent Republican Senator Susan Collins. The allegation, arriving atop a candidacy already burdened by controversy, prompted swift withdrawal of party support — a reminder that political viability is fragile, and that the weight of serious allegations can collapse even an ongoing campaign in a matter of days. The episode invites reflection on how institutions vet those they elevate, and what accountability looks like when the