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Trump on Platner rape allegations: ‘A lot of people say big falsehoods’
Trump questioned the new allegation as Platner suspended his campaign after abuse claims and a POLITICO report that an ex-girlfriend accused him of assault.
On Wednesday, President Donald Trump questioned sexual misconduct allegations against Maine Senate candidate Graham Platner aboard Air Force One, stating, "A lot of people say big falsehoods," minutes before Platner suspended his campaign.
Platner's campaign unraveled after POLITICO reported that 41-year-old Jenny Racicot accused him of sexual assault in 2021, compounding earlier allegations from Lyndsey Fifield that Platner denied as "troubling, serious, and false."
Trump, recently ordered to pay $5 million for sexually abusing and defaming Jean Carroll, suggested a double standard regarding how Fifield's earlier charges were treated, questioning whether people should automatically believe accusers.
The Maine Democratic Party will host a convention to select a successor, as state law requires Platner to resign by July 13, though potential candidates like Patrick Dempsey have declined to run.
Democrats view the Maine Senate seat as key to maintaining control of the Senate, with the race against incumbent Senator Susan Collins remaining a critical focal point despite logistical challenges of replacing Platner.