Representative Ro Khanna is facing criticism from both Republicans and Democrats for his past support of Senate candidate Graham Platner, who is accused of sexual assault. Khanna withdrew his endorsement after allegations surfaced, but critics question his delayed reaction.
Representative Ro Khanna's political standing is being tested by his association with a Senate candidate facing serious allegations, highlighting the risks of endorsing rising stars and the scrutiny faced by politicians navigating complex ethical issues.
Representative Ro Khanna is facing criticism for his past support of Senate candidate Graham Platner, who is accused of sexual assault. Khanna, who had previously defended Platner, stated that he had "had enough" and that "sexual assault or violence against women is a red line." He posted on social media that the allegations against Platner were "very serious and credible" and that Platner "should drop out from the race." Khanna also announced he was withdrawing his endorsement.
Khanna's decision to break with Platner came a few hours after the story detailing the allegations was published and roughly two hours after an interview with Platner's accuser aired on CNN. He was quicker to distance himself than other prominent Democratic supporters, including Senators Ruben Gallego and Elizabeth Warren. The Senate Democratic campaign arm also vowed to not spend any money on the race if Platner remains on the ballot.
Despite his swift action, Khanna did not escape backlash. Republicans accused him of hypocrisy, and fellow Democrats were also critical. Democratic strategist Julie Roginsky expressed puzzlement on CNN, questioning why Khanna believed women making allegations against Platner now, but had not believed previous accusers enough to withdraw his endorsement sooner. Roginsky noted Khanna's work on "the Epstein files."
Khanna had reportedly bet on Platner as a rising progressive star, a wing of the party Khanna has actively courted in anticipation of a potential 2028 presidential run. For months, Khanna enjoyed the attention of being a prominent surrogate for Platner in a key Senate race. However, this strategy has now proven unsuccessful. A California Democratic strategist, speaking anonymously, stated, "Ro Khanna will always and forever be the Graham Platner defender," adding that "damage control is going to fix the damage he’s created by getting himself in the middle of this."
Pick the topics you care about. Get only what matters, on your cadence.