Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Platner Wins 75% Primary Amid Misconduct Allegations, Sanders Endorses

6/11/2026

38 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Graham Platner won roughly 75% of the Democratic primary vote despite extensive misconduct allegations.
Senator Bernie Sanders pledged to do everything he can to help Platner win the Senate race.
Amy Gertner dismissed sexting reports as gossip while Elizabeth Warren and Ro Khanna kept endorsing Platner.
Congressman Josh Gottheimer urged Platner to withdraw, saying alleged abuse of women would damage the party.

History

Historical Context

After seven women accused him of sexual misconduct, Senator Al Franken announced his resignation on December 7 2017 and left office on January 2 2018 following a deadline set by Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer. The episode echoed earlier partisan pressures, such as the 2008 recount that gave Franken a 312-vote Senate victory, and led Governor Mark Dayton to appoint Tina Smith as his replacement.

1 of 2

Story summary

Graham Platner won roughly 75% of the Democratic primary vote despite extensive misconduct allegations.
Senator Bernie Sanders pledged to do everything he can to help Platner win the Senate race.
Amy Gertner dismissed sexting reports as gossip while Elizabeth Warren and Ro Khanna kept endorsing Platner.
Congressman Josh Gottheimer urged Platner to withdraw, saying alleged abuse of women would damage the party.

1 / 2