The Democratic Party's Senate nomination in Maine is being reshaped following the potential withdrawal of Graham Platner, shaken by a rape allegation. State Representative Valli Geiger emerged as the leading replacement after receiving a call from Platner.
Valli Geiger, a Democratic state representative from the Rockland area, told local television station WMTW that Platner called her Monday night. Geiger said Platner described her as a "fighter" and asked if she would consider the nomination if he withdrew from the race.
Platner's campaign confirmed that they have not yet made an official endorsement decision, but that Platner encouraged Geiger to run.
In a Facebook post on Tuesday, Geiger said she would not "throw Platner under the bus." In the same post, referring to Jenny Racicot, who accused Platner of rape, she said she would not "accuse or slander her of anything other than telling the truth as she experienced it."
Geiger added that Racicot's story "seems credible" but "none of us know the truth and never will." Describing Platner as "someone trying to be a better man," Geiger expressed hope that the political movement he started would continue.
Geiger's Political and Professional Background
A third-term state representative, Valli Geiger previously served six years on the Rockland City Council and one year as mayor. A former nurse, Geiger also worked as a health policy analyst and administrator.
Geiger holds a master's degree in sustainable design and built her own passive solar, net-zero energy home.
Backup Candidates and Legal Timeline
Other Democrats mentioned as possible replacements if Platner withdraws include former gubernatorial candidate Troy Jackson, Maine Secretary of State Shenna Bellows, and former Maine CDC Director Nirav Shah.
Under Maine law, if Platner formally withdraws by 5 p.m. on July 13, the Maine Democratic Party can select a new candidate by July 27 and place that candidate on the general election ballot.
