Democratic Concerns Over Graham Platner in Maine Senate Primary

Democratic concerns intensified regarding Graham Platner, a leading Senate candidate in Maine, amidst new reports on his past behavior. As the Tuesday primary election approached, party officials and strategists deliberated their response to these developments.

The New York Times uncovered claims by several women who had dated Platner, suggesting he had acted in unsettling ways. One woman reported instances where Platner had grabbed or yanked her. Additionally, she mentioned a tattoo Platner had, which he acknowledged resembled a Nazi symbol during their relationship. While some women reported feeling unsafe, others stated they felt secure with him.

Platner’s past controversies, including offensive online comments and sexually explicit messages sent during his marriage, had already cast a shadow over his campaign. These revelations heightened the party’s unease, particularly as Democrats anticipated more damaging news. This situation arises as Platner is deemed the likely nominee in a significant race against Republican Senator Susan Collins.

Among Democratic senators, opinions varied. Maggie Hassan of New Hampshire noted the seriousness of these reports, while others chose to either sidestep or downplay them. Platner, in a recent appearance on MS NOW, admitted to not always exhibiting “the best behavior” post-military service. However, he denied physically harming his ex-girlfriend and stated he only discovered recently that his tattoo resembled Nazi imagery. He has since covered the tattoo.

Despite these controversies, Platner affirmed his intention to continue his campaign.