Live from NPR News in Washington, I'm Louise Schiavone.
A new allegation of sexual assault reported Monday in Politico has shaken
the campaign of the Maine Democrats seeking to unseat Republican Senator Susan Collins.
Graham Plattner is denying accusations of sexual assault by a woman he had dated.
Plattner has now commented in this social media video.
Regardless of the inaccuracy of the reporting, I'm mindful of the political reality it will inflict.
We are taking the time to reflect on the best path forward for the state that I love,
the people that I love, the movement I belong to, and the goal of defeating Susan Collins.
Several Democrats have withdrawn their endorsements, including top Senate Democrat Chuck Schumer.
NATO leaders are gathering in Turkey's capital, Ankara,
today for the start of the annual summit of the alliance's 32 member states.
President Trump among those attending.
As NPR's Hadil al-Shalshi reports, the allies have a major challenge ahead of them.
The opening day of the NATO summit will be all about showing unity and credibility.
Leaders will meet to discuss an increase in defense spending
and investing in military capabilities, including their commitment to spend 5% of GDP on defense
and broader security needs, a significant increase from NATO's previous target.
But the main challenge for allies this week will be to convince President Trump to stay committed to NATO.
Trump has long argued that NATO allies rely too heavily on the U.S.
And that its support cannot be taken for granted.