Democrat Graham Platner exits key US Senate race, but denies rape allegation

Democratic Senate nominee Graham Platner has ended his campaign for the US Senate in Maine. Platner, a political newcomer and Marine veteran, had won the Democratic primary to challenge Republican Senator Susan Collins. His withdrawal comes after a rape allegation emerged, potentially jeopardizing the Democratic party's efforts to flip the Republican-held seat. This development leaves Maine Democrats with limited time to select a new candidate for the upcoming midterm elections, a race considered crucial for the party's goal of regaining control of the US Senate.