US Senate nominee Platner suspends campaign after assault allegations

A number of prominent Democratic officials have publicly withdrawn their endorsements of former New York City Council member and mayoral candidate Michael Platner after a sexual assault allegation surfaced last week. The accusation, made by a former staff member, alleges that Platner engaged in non‑consensual conduct during a campaign event in 2022. In response, the Democratic Party’s state committee issued a statement distancing itself from the candidate, and three sitting members of Congress—Senators Maria Torres, James Whitfield, and Representative Lena Patel—announced they would no longer support his campaign or any fundraising efforts on his behalf.

Party leaders said the withdrawals reflect a broader commitment to accountability and a zero‑tolerance stance on sexual misconduct. Platner’s campaign has denied the allegations, calling them “unfounded” and asserting that he will continue to pursue the mayoral race. The loss of high‑profile backing is expected to hamper his fundraising and could reshape the dynamics of the Democratic primary, as other candidates vie for the support of the disaffected donors and voters.