Fundraiser for Maine Senate Candidate Graham Platner in New York
In a recent trip to New York City, left-handed Maine Senate candidate Graham Platner attended a fundraiser with jewelry designer Alexis Bitter, known for her luxury creations worn by celebrities like Lady Gaga and Michelle Obama.
Describing himself as an oyster farmer, Platner is an outspoken critic of the wealthy elite. At the event, held on April 23 at Bitter’s home, he met with affluent filmmakers, actors, and other influential figures from New York.
This visit occurred shortly before Platner’s primary opponent, Governor Janet Mills of Maine, withdrew from the race. This change cleared a path for a likely general election face-off against current Senator Susan Collins (R-Maine).
Bitter posted on Instagram, sharing a photo of a smiling Platner, stating, “Feel at home with this man who hopes to be the next Maine State Senator…”
Having spent part of her childhood in Maine, Bitter believes that Platner has the potential to make significant strides in a new progressive movement.
Bitter isn’t shy about mixing politics with her brand. She has spoken out on issues such as racism and elitism. Last year, she was involved in producing the documentary “Reclaiming the Flag,” where she criticized how the American flag had been co-opted as a symbol of aggression during various political climates.
In her words, “In the era of President Trump, the Star-Spangled Banner has become a weapon used to polarize people. It’s sad that such a powerful symbol of America is being misused.” She added that, despite the issues, she wouldn’t want to raise her children anywhere else.
Bitter mentioned to Platner that it’s surprising how progressives are sometimes labeled as “far left,” attributing it to a kind of celebrity obsession in politics. Financial disclosures reveal that she made a significant contribution to his campaign, matching funds she had also directed toward figures like Bernie Sanders and Barack Obama.
In an Instagram post, she expressed support for Platner, stating she was impressed by his progressive policies, which advocate for unions, tighter regulation on corporations, and universal healthcare without corporate sponsorship.
Platner’s unexpected lead over Mills prior to the June 9 Maine primary has rattled some traditional Democratic leaders, particularly since Maine is anticipated to be a key state for Democrats in the upcoming midterm elections.
However, Platner’s past has raised concerns. Controversial social media posts, political tactics, and a tattoo with connections to Nazi imagery—though he claimed it was gotten in error—have caused some unease among party officials.
He later covered that tattoo with a Celtic knot and a dog image, explaining that he didn’t fully understand the implications of the original design.
