Candidate vying to replace Platner claims Israel ‘committing genocide in Gaza right now’

Graham Platner, a Democratic Senate candidate in Maine, withdrew from the race following sexual assault allegations, concluding his withdrawal letter with pro-Palestinian remarks including "Free Palestine." Shenna Bellows, Maine's Secretary of State and a candidate to replace Platner, publicly agreed with his claim that Israel is "committing genocide in Gaza right now" and stated that taxpayer funds should not be sent to support such actions. Platner, who had previously led in polls, framed his exit as a conspiracy against him. Other candidates vying for his spot have also begun to express similar views on the conflict in Gaza.