Warner leaves Platner allegations to Maine voters in key Senate race
Why it matters: Democrats see Susan Collins' seat as pivotal to Senate control, and the claims add pressure on a top pickup target.
Sen. Mark Warner said allegations against Maine Democratic Senate candidate Graham Platner were "disturbing" if true, but said voters in Maine would decide their impact. Warner, speaking on ABC's "This Week," said Platner should try to disprove the claims if he can. The comments followed a New York Times report based on interviews with several former partners, including women who described Platner as demeaning, reckless or physically rough. Platner acknowledged being a "bad boyfriend" and said he struggled with PTSD and alcohol, but denied physically rough behavior. The controversy lands in a race against Republican Sen. Susan Collins that Democrats view as crucial to winning Senate control.