Story perspectives

Maine Democrat May Resign After Allegation, Dempsey Considered

7/8/2026

Summary

Story summary

Maine Democrat Graham Platton may quit after a Politico rape allegation, creating a vacancy against Republican Senator Susan Collins and requiring a replacement by July 27 should he withdraw by 5 p.m. on July 13.
Actor Patrick Dempsey, a 60-year-old Maine native and Grey’s Anatomy star, is floated as an emergency candidate.
The Maine Wire says Dempsey’s charitable work and outsider image could draw media, energize donors and attract women voters and independents.

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Story summary

Maine Democrat Graham Platton may quit after a Politico rape allegation, creating a vacancy against Republican Senator Susan Collins and requiring a replacement by July 27 should he withdraw by 5 p.m. on July 13.
Actor Patrick Dempsey, a 60-year-old Maine native and Grey’s Anatomy star, is floated as an emergency candidate.
The Maine Wire says Dempsey’s charitable work and outsider image could draw media, energize donors and attract women voters and independents.