Poll: Majority of Maine voters would want Platner to drop out after another scandal
Poll: Majority of Maine Voters Would Support Platner's Exit After Another Scandal
Poll - A recent survey conducted by Wedgewood Polls indicates a significant portion of Maine voters would prefer Senate candidate Graham Platner (D) to withdraw from the race if new allegations emerge. The findings, released on Monday, reveal that 75% of respondents believe Platner should step down in the event of a further scandal, while 20% remain in favor of his continued candidacy. A small percentage—5%—have yet to decide.
Wedgewood Polls explained the timing of the release, stating on the social platform X that the survey was initially intended to be published later. However, with news of the latest allegations approaching, they accelerated the distribution to capture public sentiment before the story gained more traction. Politico's report earlier that week highlighted that a former girlfriend of Platner had accused him of sexual assault, marking the latest in a series of controversies.
The poll also broke down responses by political affiliation, showing stark differences in support for Platner. Among voters who backed Kamala Harris in the 2024 presidential race, 65% believe he should exit, while 28% think he should stay. Voters who supported neither Harris nor Donald Trump were even more decisive, with 78% advocating for his removal and only 13% expressing confidence in his ability to continue the campaign.
Gender and Age Demographics Highlight Support for Platner's Exit
The survey results also reflected gender-based opinions, with 76% of men and 74% of women stating Platner should step aside. These numbers show a narrow but consistent preference across gender lines. In terms of age demographics, roughly three-quarters of all groups—ranging from young adults to seniors—support his withdrawal, emphasizing a broad consensus on his potential impact.
The analysis further noted that Platner's standing is vulnerable, particularly among his own supporters. A
from Wedgewood’s report states: “Among a candidate’s own base, that is a strikingly shallow well of support to absorb a further hit, and it suggests real fragility beneath Platner’s topline standing against Sen. Susan Collins (R-Maine).” This observation underscores how the scandal might erode confidence in his campaign, even among those who previously backed him.
Comparisons to Other Candidates Raise Questions About the Race
The poll also explored voter preferences for head-to-head matchups. A key finding was that voters lean toward a potential showdown between Maine’s gubernatorial candidate Troy Jackson (D) and Sen. Susan Collins (R-Maine), with 48% favoring Jackson over Collins. This contrasts with the current race, where Platner’s head-to-head against Collins received 46% support, slightly less than the matchup involving Jackson. The data suggests that if Platner were to exit, the race could shift significantly in favor of his opponent.
Another interesting dynamic emerged in the poll: voters were evenly divided over a hypothetical contest between Collins and Gov. Janet Mills (D), who had previously dropped out of the race against Platner. The poll showed a 47-47 split, indicating that the race might hinge on the candidates' ability to maintain momentum or adapt to new challenges.
The scandal has already led to a notable shift in support. Democrat-aligned groups have rescinded their endorsements of Platner, calling for his withdrawal. This move reflects growing concern over his credibility, especially as the race enters its final stages. The decision to remove endorsements is a strategic move, signaling a loss of trust within the party’s ranks.
Jenny Racicot’s Allegations and Platner’s Response
Jenny Racicot, a Maine resident and former partner of Platner, has become central to the controversy. Politico interviewed her, detailing how she accused Platner of sexually assaulting her in 2021. The report verified her claims through a review of documentation, including emails she exchanged with her therapist. Racicot emphasized that her decision to speak out was personal, aimed at reclaiming her life, rather than being politically motivated.
Racicot told CNN’s Jake Tapper that the incident in 2021 was a pivotal moment for her. “Coming forward was about getting my life back,” she explained. “It wasn’t about politics. I strongly support his policies and believe Maine needs someone who shares those values and is committed to doing the work.” Her statement highlights the emotional weight of the allegations and her belief in Platner’s integrity, despite the recent accusations.
Platner, in response, denied the allegations and labeled the report as “inaccurate.” However, he acknowledged the need to evaluate the best path forward for the state. “I’m taking the time to reflect on the best path forward for the state I love, the people I love, the movement I belong to, and the goal of defeating Susan Collins,” he said. This admission suggests a willingness to address the issue, even as the campaign faces mounting pressure.
Left-Wing Influence and Campaign Implications
Left-wing influencer Hasan Piker weighed in on the situation, expressing strong support for Racicot’s claims. He stated that the allegations are “curtains” for Platner’s campaign, implying that the scandal could be decisive. Piker cited the documentation Racicot provided to Politico as evidence of the validity of her accusations.
The scandal has intensified scrutiny on Platner’s campaign, particularly from progressive voices. With his endorsements in jeopardy, the question remains whether he can maintain relevance or if the allegations will ultimately force him out. The race for the Senate seat in Maine has become a focal point for national attention, as the outcome could influence the broader political landscape.
Wedgewood Polls’ survey,