PORTLAND, Maine - Graham Platner plans to answer questions from voters on Sunday during a town hall meeting in Maine. The Democrat seeks to steady his Senate campaign following fresh reports about his earlier conduct toward women.

The Portland gathering occurs two days ahead of the Democratic primary. Observers still view the contest as Platner's to claim, yet the session may reveal whether support for his unconventional bid has waned.

The New York Times reported Thursday that an ex-girlfriend accused Platner of repeatedly seizing her shoulders during disputes and once pinning her arm behind her back before confining her to a room. Platner has consistently denied claims of physical aggression.

Additional former partners interviewed by the Times offered favorable accounts, though others noted he could be unpredictable and cutting. The account followed earlier disclosures that Platner had sent explicit messages to multiple women during his marriage.

Despite the claims, prominent Democrats who backed Platner earlier have not withdrawn endorsements. He seeks to unseat Republican Sen. Susan Collins in the November election.

Platner joined California Rep. Ro Khanna at a rally in Bar Harbor on Friday. He drew applause and stated that Mainers stand with him.

A combat veteran, Platner has discussed his battles with alcohol and post-traumatic stress disorder following military duty, while emphasizing personal growth since that period.

Recent developments have heightened concerns among some Democrats already uneasy over past online remarks that downplayed sexual assault and a skull tattoo viewed as a Nazi emblem. Platner has apologized for the comments and altered the tattoo, stating he was unaware of its meaning at the time.

Rahm Emanuel, a possible 2028 Democratic presidential contender visiting nearby New Hampshire, remarked that questions remain about Platner's ability to defeat Collins.

Everyone awaits clarity on whether this marks the start or conclusion of his momentum, he noted. An ending would close one chapter, while an ongoing effort would signal continued opportunity.

Associated Press writer Steven Sloan contributed reporting from Warren, New Hampshire. Kruesi reported from Providence, Rhode Island.