Maine Democrats set July deadlines to replace Platner in Senate race
What's next: hopefuls must file by July 15 and submit 500 signatures from at least eight counties by July 20.
Maine Democrats moved to replace Graham Platner in the state's US Senate race after misconduct allegations derailed his campaign, setting a fast-track process for new contenders. Late Thursday, the Maine Democratic Party required candidates to file their information and a 300-word statement on how they would run a grassroots campaign. They also must submit 500 valid voter signatures from across Maine, including backers in at least eight counties. Declarations are due July 15, with signatures due July 20. Public health expert Nirav Shah, former state senator Troy Jackson and Maine Beer Company founder Dan Kleban have entered or reentered the race as Democrats try to field a candidate capable of challenging Republican Sen. Susan Collins in November.