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DOUG SCHOEN: Far-left gamble in Maine blows up, leaving Democrats with one choice
Democratic pollster and commentator Doug Schoen argues that the collapse of Graham Platner's US Senate candidacy in Maine has exposed the risks of the party — and democratic socialists in particular — backing inexperienced, far-left candidates without proper vetting. Platner withdrew from the race following allegations of sexual assault, and Schoen contends Democrats now have one final chance to salvage the seat by handling the selection of a replacement correctly. He frames the episode as a warning that the party must avoid repeating the "coronation" approach he associates with Joe Biden and Kamala Harris.
Schoen urges Maine Democrats to use the roughly two weeks before their nominating process to run an open contest that goes beyond their 600-delegate convention, including town halls and rallies where voters can question candidates before a nominee is chosen to face incumbent Republican Senator Susan Collins. He specifically cautions against automatically elevating Troy Jackson, a former Platner supporter with similar politics, noting that Platner won his uncontested primary with just 72% of the vote — meaning nearly 30% of Maine Democrats did not back him. Schoen says he made the same case for an open process in 2024, and insists the lesson is that the process matters as much as, or more than, the candidate.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Democrats should prioritise electoral viability and party credibility by implementing more rigorous vetting processes and inclusive nomination contests. The fact that nearly 30% of Maine Democrats withheld support for Platner signals genuine concern about his candidacy, and automatically elevating a similar candidate risks repeating these failures. A more open process with town halls allows voters to make informed choices rather than relying solely on convention delegates.
The case against
Democratic activists and elected delegates should determine their own nominee through established party processes rather than accepting prescriptions from establishment figures like Schoen. Troy Jackson is a legitimately elected state official with authentic grassroots backing, and these criticisms appear designed to restrict progressive candidates rather than address the specific allegations against Platner. One candidate's personal misconduct should not be weaponised to delegitimise progressive politics or justify imposing higher bars specifically on left-wing candidates.
Explained simply
Graham Platner was the Democratic candidate selected for a US Senate race in Maine against Republican incumbent Susan Collins. He withdrew from the race after allegations of sexual assault surfaced.
His withdrawal has forced Maine Democrats to rapidly choose a replacement nominee. The situation has sparked discussion among party figures about how candidates should be selected and how best to choose his replacement.
Control of the US Senate is competitive, making this Maine race strategically important to Democrats. The rapid search for a replacement candidate in a consequential election race has become a focal point for debate about candidate selection practices.