Democratic Senate leaders Chuck Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand call on Maine Democratic Senate candidate Graham Platner to withdraw from the race after media reports describe allegations of sexual assault. In a joint statement released through the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee (DSCC), Schumer and Gillibrand say the reported allegations are “incredibly disturbing,” citing claims involving violence, abuse and sexual assault, which they say are unacceptable. They also indicate the DSCC would not invest in the Maine Senate campaign if Platner remains the nominee. The controversy centers on an accusation from a woman reported by multiple outlets. The report describes alleged conduct that occurred nearly five years ago, in which the accuser says Platner forcibly had sex with her after entering her home. The calls for Platner to step aside come as the Maine race remains a contest against incumbent Republican U.S. Senator Susan Collins.