Ex-Obama Aides Criticize Maine Senate Candidate Over Rape Allegation

Former aides to ex-President Barack Obama, now podcast hosts, have criticized Maine Senate candidate Graham Platner following reports of a rape allegation against him. “Pod Save America” co-host and former Obama spokesperson Tommy Vietor expressed concern about the seriousness of the allegations. He stated, “The allegations in the story are bad and troubling.” Vietor added that the accusations appear credible as they are supported by documentation.

The political impact of these allegations goes beyond the specific story; there’s a growing perception of Platner’s lack of transparency and honesty. Jenny Racicot, a Maine resident, publicly accused Platner of rape, claiming he entered her home without permission and assaulted her nearly five years ago. This accusation was made during interviews with Politico and CNN.

Jon Lovett, another co-host from “Pod Save America” and a former Obama aid, suggested Platner may be deceiving himself about his past actions. Lovett believes Platner should not contest the election and should step aside. Racicot disclosed that she ended her relationship with Platner immediately after the alleged incident, noting, “I remember the specific moment where I thought, ‘This is no longer my choice.'”

Vietor responded to a video where Platner addressed the allegations. He remarked, “My takeaway from that video was that he’s going to drop out of the race. I think he has to.” Vietor acknowledged Platner had appeal among voters willing to overlook his controversies.

The challenge, according to Vietor, is identifying a candidate in Maine who both resonates with disenchanted voters and has undergone proper vetting by the party. Despite the anger among Janet Mills’s supporters, they faced a lack of support from Maine voters, many of whom sought alternative representation.

Loveltt concurred, urging Platner to end his campaign to facilitate defeating Susan Collins. He emphasized the gravity of the allegations against Platner, noting his lack of transparency in past controversies and the apparent believability of recent claims. “Starting from when you interviewed him about the tattoo, he has not always been transparent about it,” Lovett stated.

The allegations align with Platner’s prior behavior, as detailed by Racicot, citing his excessive drinking. Lovett suggests Platner may not fully remember the events, complicating his categorical denial of the accusations in the video.

Tommy Vietor underscored the damaging effect of these allegations on Platner’s political ambitions amid the “cumulative impact of a series of articles and allegations.” Lovett believes Platner must withdraw from the race, recognizing the need for him to confront his issues privately instead of during a significant Senate contest.

Fox News reached out to Platner’s campaign but did not receive an immediate response. This report includes contributions from Fox News’ Adam Pack and Paul Steinhauser.

For story tips, contact associate editor Alexander Hall at [email protected].