USA TODAY is reporting that Graham Platner has committed to withdrawing his candidacy from the Maine Senate race, following a series of controversies including a sexual assault allegation. The Maine Democratic Party is scheduled to meet tonight to discuss the delegate selection process for a nominating convention this month. The party hopes to gain more clarity on the plans, which are currently fluid. Kathie Purdy, York County chair, confirmed the party plans to select approximately 500 delegates proportionately by county, along with the 100-person State Committee, to decide the challenger for Susan Collins. Platner has until Monday to formally submit his withdrawal to the Maine secretary of state's office.
The Education Department is holding a private briefing today with special education community stakeholders. USA TODAY said the meeting, set for 2 p.m. ET, will address the Trump administration's proposed transfer of special education programs to the Health and Human Services Department. This plan has generated "uproar" within the disability community, though Meg Kilgannon, the agency's director of external affairs, stated the partnership aims to "reduce bureaucratic barriers."
Separately, USA TODAY Network colleagues are reporting from Milwaukee that former Wisconsin judge Hannah Dugan was not given a prison term or probation after her conviction for obstructing U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers. Dugan was fined $5,000 at her sentencing hearing, with the judge noting her dedication to helping the poor.
USA TODAY also highlighted a daily photo gallery showing new U.S. airstrikes rocking an Iran war zone.