These 12 Democrats could replace Graham Platner if he drops out

Twelve Democratic Candidates in Maine's Running to Replace Senate Race Withdrawal

These 12 Democrats could replace Graham - In the wake of growing pressure from party members, Senate candidate Graham Platner may face a rapid reselection process if he decides to exit the race due to sexual assault allegations. Maine Democrats have a limited window to act, with the latest deadline set for July 13 to withdraw and name a successor. This situation marks a pivotal moment for the state’s political landscape, as the party seeks to secure a Senate seat and shift the balance of power in the U.S. Senate.

The urgency surrounding this potential replacement echoes the swift response Democrats had when Kamala Harris took over the presidential race after Joe Biden’s withdrawal in July 2024. State rules allow for a last-minute exit, but the replacement process is more complex. The Maine Democratic Party must finalize a nominee by July 27, a task that has no established protocol. Two political scientists from the state noted that this scenario is unprecedented in Maine’s history, highlighting the need for quick decision-making.

With the current Senate seat held by GOP Senator Susan Collins, 73, the Democrats view this race as a chance to challenge Republican dominance. Party leadership expressed support for Platner’s withdrawal in a statement released on July 6 but left the method of selecting a replacement unspecified. The law outlines a general directive for the political committee to issue a replacement nomination, offering flexibility in the selection process.

Several names have emerged as possible contenders, with Troy Jackson, a native of Allagash, leading the pack. Jackson, a logger and former president of the Maine Senate from 2018 to 2024, lost the gubernatorial race in 2026 but has been vocal in his endorsement of Platner. Despite this, local analysts and prediction market platforms predict his candidacy would be the most viable. Jackson’s campaign has drawn backing from labor leaders, Senator Bernie Sanders, and Representative Ro Khanna, reinforcing his appeal to working-class voters.

Judging by his past performance, Jackson is likely the top choice among Democrats. “He’s the closest thing to Platner in terms of his populism and focus on labor issues,” remarked Jim Melcher, a political science professor at the University of Maine at Farmington. “Platner’s core supporters would probably be satisfied with Jackson.” However, the party is exploring multiple avenues to choose a successor, including a caucus, convention, or informal discussions. These options could influence the final decision, depending on the timeline and internal dynamics.

Other names under consideration include former Secretary of State Shonna Bellows. A Lewiston native, Bellows previously held the state’s top election official role and ran for governor in 2026. Though she lost the primary, her experience in administration and advocacy for civil rights and environmental causes may give her an edge. Bellows called for Platner’s resignation on July 6 but did not immediately confirm her own bid for the Senate seat.

Another potential candidate is Paul Costello, who competed against Platner in the primary and narrowly lost. A Bangor native, Costello has worked as an environmental policy consultant and served in international roles with USAID. His campaign gained traction in the early months of the election, and he signaled his readiness to re-enter the race if Platner steps down. “I’m back in,” he stated on social media, expressing confidence in his ability to rally support.

Meanwhile, former actor and nurse Dr. Derek Shepherd, portrayed by Dempsey in the hit TV series Grey’s Anatomy, has also been mentioned as a wildcard. His media presence could attract national attention, energize donors, and appeal to voters seeking a fresh face in politics. The Maine Wire highlighted his potential to resonate with women, independents, and those drawn to unconventional candidates. Despite this, Dempsey’s representatives have not yet responded to inquiries about his candidacy.

The replacement process has sparked debate about the role of party leadership. University of Maine political science professor Mark Brewer noted that Democrats have the freedom to choose any method, whether through a traditional “smoke-filled room” strategy or a more transparent convention. “They could have it be done by the party leadership, right? Classic old-style politics. But I don’t think they’re going to do that because the optics would be bad,” Brewer explained in a

“...the optics on that would be terrible,”

Brewer said. “A convention might be more open, but it might not be as inclusive as some folks want. A caucus is also possible, though it would be tight to organize at this late stage.”

While the party could theoretically make a unilateral decision, the recent emphasis on inclusivity suggests a more collaborative approach. The Federal Election Commission reported that Jackson was the first to file paperwork on July 7, signaling his intent to run immediately if Platner withdraws. This proactive step positions him as a strong contender, though his campaign’s success hinges on maintaining support from both grassroots and establishment figures.

Democratic leaders are balancing the need for speed with the desire for a candidate who can unify the party’s base. The sexual assault allegations have divided voters, with some criticizing Platner’s conduct while others defend his record. The replacement must navigate this tension, ensuring alignment with the party’s platform and values. “This is a critical moment to showcase the party’s strength and adaptability,” said one insider, emphasizing the importance of a cohesive strategy.

As the deadline approaches, the Maine Democratic Party faces a delicate task. The replacement not only impacts the state’s Senate race but also serves as a test of the party’s ability to respond to crises. With the potential for a new leader to emerge, the focus will shift to how the Democrats manage this transition while maintaining momentum in the election cycle.