Graham Platner, a 41-year-old oysterman and progressive Democrat running for the U.S.Senate in Maine, is facing mounting pressure to withdraw from his campaign following new sexual assault allegations.

The Politico report details an on-the-record interview with a woman who claims Platner forced her into sex while intoxicated nearly five years ago, despite her objections.The allegations were corroborated by a man she later dated and emails between the woman and her therapist.

While Platner denies the accusations, several Democrats, including Senator Ruben Gallego and Representative Ro Khanna, have called for him to drop out of the race, citing the seriousness of the claims.The Maine Democratic Party has also urged Platner to step aside, emphasizing support for survivors.This controversy comes at a critical juncture for Democrats aiming to unseat Republican incumbent Susan Collins in November’s midterm elections.Platner has one week to decide whether to withdraw under state law, with the party having two weeks to name a replacement.Potential candidates include Governor Janet Mills and former state senator Troy Jackson.

The allegations add to Platner’s history of scandals, including a Nazi-associated tattoo and past accusations of misconduct, complicating his political prospects in a closely contested race.