Graham Platner ended his bid for the U.S. Senate seat in Maine after a claim of misconduct was made against him. The withdrawal was first reported on July 8, with additional coverage appearing the next day.
Vermont Representative Valli Geiger stated that Platner is encouraging other candidates to enter the race. His departure now allows Democrats to select a new nominee for the forthcoming primary. The party will start the process right away. The seat had been viewed as highly contested before his withdrawal.