Updated
Updated · Fox News · Jul 12
Ro Khanna Regrets Backing Graham Platner After 2021 Assault Allegation
Updated
Updated · Fox News · Jul 12

Ro Khanna Regrets Backing Graham Platner After 2021 Assault Allegation

3 articles · Updated · Fox News · Jul 12

Summary

  • Ro Khanna said he "got that call wrong" and regrets endorsing Maine Senate candidate Graham Platner, days after withdrawing support over a sexual assault allegation tied to 2021.
  • Khanna told NBC the accusation crossed his "red line" on sexual violence, adding Democrats need to recognize earlier signs of domestic abuse after previously standing by Platner through other controversies.
  • Platner ended his campaign last week after a report accused him of sexually assaulting an ex-girlfriend, derailing a Democratic effort to unseat Republican Sen. Susan Collins in Maine.
  • Khanna had campaigned with Platner in June and last month defended him on CBS by saying prior reports described toxicity and verbal intimidation but no evidence of violence.

Insights

How can a political party's vetting process fail to uncover a candidate's public history of controversy?
Why did leaders only act on sexual assault claims after ignoring numerous other serious warning signs?
When does personal trauma stop being an explanation and become an excuse for a public figure's behavior?