Ex-Obama Aides Criticize Maine Senate Candidate Amid Allegations

Former aides to President Barack Obama, now podcast hosts, have criticized Maine Senate candidate Graham Platner following reports of a rape allegation. The co-host of ‘Pod Save America’ and former Obama spokesman, Tommy Vietor, expressed his concerns. He described the allegations as troubling and credible, supported by documentation.

Vietor noted the political impact extends beyond the current story, emphasizing the ongoing accumulation of articles and allegations against Platner. He perceived a lack of transparency and honesty from Platner regarding these issues.

Jenny Racicot, a Maine resident, accused Platner of rape in interviews with Politico and CNN. She alleged that nearly five years ago, Platner entered her home uninvited and intoxicated, assaulting her. Racicot, who had been seeing Platner casually, severed ties with him immediately after the incident.

Jon Lovett, another ‘Pod Save America’ host, formerly worked as an Obama aide. Lovett suggested Platner might be deceiving himself about his past. He argued the issue should not involve the election, recommending Platner step aside.

Vietor referred to a video where Platner responded to the allegations, predicting Platner’s withdrawal from the race. He mentioned Platner had appeal among voters frustrated with the establishment, but recent scandals might change this dynamic.

Platner faced calls to exit the race from numerous Democratic Party members following these allegations. Vietor emphasized the difficulty in finding a candidate in Maine who could address voter anger while vetted by the party. Lovett agreed, stating Platner’s campaign should end to maintain a chance against Susan Collins, the incumbent.

Lovett highlighted Platner’s lack of transparency in previous controversies, including a tattoo story. He remarked about Platner’s past behavior, linked to excessive drinking, observing it aligns with recent allegations.

The allegations against Platner are particularly significant due to the collective impact of prior accusations. Lovett speculated Platner might not have been truthful with himself regarding his troubled past. He concluded this issue isn’t suitable for a Senate race determining Senate control.

Fox News Digital contacted Platner’s campaign but didn’t receive an immediate response.