Democratic candidate Graham Platner has suspended his campaign for a key US Senate race, according to the BBC. The decision followed an allegation of sexual assault made against him.
The move came days after a woman accused Platner of sexual assault. Platner has denied the accusation, describing it as “categorically false”.
The BBC reported that the suspension of the campaign came in the wake of the allegation, marking a significant development in what has been characterised as an important Senate contest.
Beyond the fact of the suspension and Platner’s denial, no further details about the circumstances of the allegation or the future of his candidacy were provided in the available reporting.
Why it matters
US Senate races can shape the balance of power in Congress, so the sudden suspension of a candidate in a contest described as key carries potential political consequences. The situation also highlights how allegations can rapidly alter the course of a campaign.