Rep. Ro Khanna (D-CA) withdrew his endorsement of Maine Senate candidate Graham Platner on Monday and called for him to exit the race following allegations of sexual assault. The decision followed a report by POLITICO regarding an accusation from Jenny Racicot, a woman who previously dated Platner. Platner has denied the claim, stating that "any accusation of non-consensual behavior is categorically untrue."
Khanna had previously been a prominent supporter of Platner, appearing with him at a campaign rally in Maine. That appearance took place one day after the New York Times reported on Platner's behavior toward former girlfriends. Khanna had also defended the candidate through other controversies, including social media posts and a tattoo that resembled a Nazi symbol, previously stating that Platner deserved "grace."
Following the Monday report, Khanna stated on social media that sexual assault is a "red line" and described the new allegations as "serious and credible." His withdrawal occurred several hours before similar actions by Sen. Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) and Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-MA). Additionally, the Senate Democratic campaign arm announced it would withhold funding for the race if Platner remains the candidate.
Rep. Khanna’s involvement is notable due to his status as a surrogate for progressive candidates and his reported interest in a 2028 presidential bid. Political strategists cited in the report suggest the association with Platner may influence Khanna's reputation among the progressive wing of the party he has spent months courting. The impact will be felt by donors and organizers who aligned with the campaign based on the early support of national figures like Khanna, Warren, and Gallego.
The situation sets a precedent for how national party leadership and prominent surrogates respond to personal misconduct allegations during an active campaign cycle. It demonstrates a shift from "grace" to immediate withdrawal once specific allegations of physical assault are raised. The next steps depend on Platner's response to the calls to drop out; however, the lack of party funding and the loss of major endorsements are immediate changes to the campaign's operational capacity as the election approaches.