In Bar Harbor, Maine, Rep. Ro Khanna from California expressed his view that Senate candidate Graham Platner needs to apologize to women who have come forward with allegations against him. Speaking to NBC News, Khanna highlighted his disapproval of the behaviors attributed to Platner by three women who shared their stories with The New York Times.

Khanna acknowledged Platner’s efforts at redemption. However, Khanna emphasized the importance of apologizing to the women involved. He labeled Platner’s alleged conduct as “misogynistic” and “toxic” and stated, “I think he should apologize. I believe what he did was wrong.” He conveyed that Platner is remorseful and should express regret to better demonstrate his commitment to standing against a misogynistic culture.

The women who accused Platner described their experiences with him as “toxic” and “unsettling.” One of them, Lyndsey Fifield, alleged that Platner once physically restrained her under distressing circumstances. Platner has rejected claims of physical abuse and suggests the allegations are politically motivated, especially given Fifield’s involvement with conservative groups and campaigns.

Rep. Khanna stands as a prominent supporter of Platner amidst these accusations. He addressed a gathering, defending Platner’s character transformation. “He understood that those were not the best years of his life,” Khanna remarked to an audience, commending Platner for accepting responsibility and striving for self-improvement.