Dems Look To Nirav Shah As ME Senate Race Is Rocked By Charges Against Platner

India-West News Desk

AUGUSTA, ME – Pressure is building on Maine Democratic U.S. Senate nominee Graham Platner to withdraw from the race following a sexual assault allegation, with former gubernatorial candidate Dr. Nirav Shah emerging as one of the names most frequently mentioned as a potential replacement.

The calls intensified after Politico reported allegations by Maine resident Jenny Racicot, who accused Platner of sexually assaulting her in 2021. Platner has denied the allegation, calling it “troubling, serious, and false,” and insisting that “any accusation of non-consensual behavior is categorically untrue.”

Shah, who finished second in Maine’s Democratic gubernatorial primary, joined a growing list of Democratic leaders urging Platner to suspend his campaign. Secretary of State Shenna Bellows also called on him to step aside, saying the seriousness of the allegations required action.

Under Maine law, Platner has until July 13 to withdraw. If he does, the Maine Democratic Party has until July 27 to select a replacement nominee to challenge incumbent Republican Sen. Susan Collins in November.

Political observers say Shah is among the strongest potential successors. A physician and former director of the Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shah became widely known during the COVID-19 pandemic through his public health briefings. He later served as principal deputy director of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention before returning to Maine politics.

Newsweek reported that Shah’s statewide name recognition, moderate profile and second-place finish in the Democratic gubernatorial primary make him a credible option if party leaders seek a consensus nominee.

Former Maine Senate President Troy Jackson is also considered a leading contender and has publicly expressed interest in replacing Platner should the nomination become vacant. Other names floated include Bellows, former House Speaker Sara Gideon, Gov. Janet Mills, Rep. Jared Golden and several former Senate candidates.

The allegations have also triggered a wave of withdrawn endorsements and financial support for Platner. This includes Congressman Ro Khanna (D-CA).

The controversy comes as Democrats view Maine as one of their best opportunities to flip a Republican-held Senate seat in the 2026 elections.