Can another candidate inspire the movement that Platner built?

Party leaders say they want a process that’s inclusive, open, transparent and fair to all candidates, and have criticized the Platner campaign for trying to influence the selection procedure.

The Maine Democratic Party and the Senate Majority PAC have pulled their support, as have high-profile supporters such as Rep. Ro Khanna of California and Sen. Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts.

Platner has denied the accusation and said he is ‘taking the time to reflect on the best path forward.’