Rep. Josh Gottheimer Predicts Graham Platner Will Withdraw from Senate Race

Rep. Josh Gottheimer, a Democrat from New Jersey, stated on June 9, 2026, that he believes Maine Democratic Senate candidate Graham Platner will withdraw from the ballot, even if he wins the primary election. Gottheimer has previously criticized Platner for various scandals and expressed concern about support for candidates like him within the Democratic Party. He suggested that Platner should step down to allow another Democrat to take his place, citing issues such as a controversial tattoo and allegations of inappropriate behavior. Gottheimer did not endorse Platner's Republican opponent, Sen. Susan Collins, but indicated that he would call for Platner's resignation regardless of the election outcome. He expressed doubt that Platner would become the Democratic nominee, referencing ongoing concerns about his candidacy and recent reports regarding his conduct. Some progressives, including Senators Bernie Sanders and Rep. Ro Khanna, have continued to support Platner despite the controversies surrounding him.