Maine Senate Race: Platner’s Campaign Struggles
This week, a new poll highlights a tight Senate race in Maine and raises questions about Democratic candidate Graham Platner’s appeal to working-class voters. Platner, an oyster farmer, trails incumbent Republican Sen. Susan Collins by 21 points among registered voters without a four-year college degree. According to a poll by the New York Times, Portland Press Herald, and Siena College, Platner stands at 37%, while Collins has 58% support from this group.
The poll also indicates Platner is popular among White college-educated voters, leading by 37 points. In contrast, he lags by 23 points among White non-college-educated voters. In a similar 2020 poll, Collins had a smaller lead among non-college-educated White voters, showing a significant shift in this demographic.
Challenges for Platner
Despite positioning himself as a champion against corporate greed, Platner’s connection with the working class appears weak. Social media discussions echo this sentiment. Ryan Girdusky, from the 1776 Project PAC, notes Platner seems inauthentic to actual working-class individuals. Journalist Melissa Braunstein shares similar views online.
Financial records add to the perception issues. While Platner claims a working-class background as an oyster farmer, reports suggest his main income source is veteran’s disability payments. Additionally, his affluent upbringing and education at prestigious schools cast doubts on his working-class credentials.
Maine Republican state Rep. Laurel Libby remarks, “Mainers can detect inauthenticity. They seek genuine representation, which they’ve found in Susan Collins.”
Controversy Surrounding Platner
Platner’s campaign faces multiple challenges including allegations of infidelity, abusive behavior, and controversial statements. A tattoo linked to Nazi imagery and comments derogating the military contribute to his negative image. A local poll indicates only 44% view him as having “good character,” while 47% find him “too extreme.”
Even with these obstacles, Platner’s anti-establishment stance resonates with some voters. The New York Times poll shows him marginally leading Collins by two points. The outcome of this race could influence control of the Senate. Currently, 54% of poll respondents favor Democratic control, slightly higher than Platner’s personal support.
Collins also faces scrutiny. Some voters believe she may align too closely with Trump. Concerns over her age, 73, and ability to serve effectively, also arise.