Pennsylvania Senator John Fetterman has publicly demanded that Senator Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) issue an apology for his early and vocal support of Maine Democratic Senate candidate Graham Platner. The demand follows a series of escalating sexual assault allegations against Platner, which have led to a wave of prominent Democrats rescinding their support.
New Allegations and Political Fallout
The controversy intensified on Monday following a report detailing accusations from Jenny Racicot, a former partner of Platner. Racicot alleges that Platner raped her during an unannounced visit to her home in 2021, describing a forceful encounter that occurred without her consent. This report adds to a year of mounting misconduct allegations that have plagued Platner’s campaign.
In response to the report, several high-ranking Democrats, including Senator Elizabeth Warren, have called for Platner to withdraw from the race. Warren stated that the best path forward for the party is for Platner to step aside to address the allegations, emphasizing the importance of the Maine Senate seat in the broader effort to challenge Republican incumbent Susan Collins.
Fetterman’s Criticism of Sanders
Senator Fetterman, speaking on Fox News’ “The Ingraham Angle,” targeted Sanders directly for his role in elevating Platner. “I would really call Bernie Sanders to apologize for pushing this kind of predator more than anyone,” Fetterman said, adding that the apology should be directed specifically toward the victims.
Fetterman criticized his colleagues for ignoring the warning signs surrounding the candidate, noting that many within the party had supported Platner despite clear indicators of his problematic history. “All the people that sent Platner checks or cashed checks from Platner, maybe look in the mirror,” Fetterman remarked.
Sanders’ Stance
While other Democratic leaders have distanced themselves from the campaign, Senator Sanders has yet to rescind his endorsement. Last month, when confronted with previous abuse allegations made by another former partner, Lyndsey Fifield, Sanders dismissed concerns by stating, “I’m sure he’s not a saint,” while referencing Platner’s personal struggles. As of Tuesday morning, Sanders’ office had not provided a formal response to the latest calls for an apology.
Platner has denied the allegations in a video statement posted to social media, though he acknowledged that he is currently reflecting on the “political reality” and the future of his campaign.