Maine Democrats set July deadlines to replace Platner in Senate race

Maine Democrats moved to replace Senate candidate Graham Platner after his campaign suspension, setting a rapid process for new contenders to qualify for the ballot against Republican Sen. Susan Collins. The Maine Democratic Party said late Thursday that prospective candidates must submit their information and a 300-word statement on how they would run a grassroots campaign. They also need 500 valid voter signatures from across the state, including support from voters in at least eight counties. Declarations of intent 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 already moved toward bids, while it remains unclear whether Gov. Janet Mills will reenter the race.