The View Co-Hosts Discuss Graham Platner’s Candidacy

On Monday’s episode of “The View,” co-host Sunny Hostin expressed her support for Maine Democratic Senate candidate Graham Platner, despite labeling him a “liar, a racist, and an anti-Semite.” Hostin’s rationale? She believes that winning his seat is crucial for Democrats aiming for a Senate majority in the upcoming midterms.

Platner has been embroiled in a number of controversies recently, including tattoos that have been linked to Nazi symbolism, as well as inflammatory Reddit posts about veterans and sexual assault. Additionally, explicit messages he allegedly sent to other women during his marriage have also come to light.

Hostin shared her conflict over the situation, acknowledging the dilemmas surrounding it. “So he’s a liar, he’s a racist, he’s an anti-Semite. He’s a homophobe,” she stated. “I mean, he has everything, and character matters. But right now, we have someone in the White House with nearly unchecked power. The only way to regain any semblance of democracy is to have a Congress with actual checks and balances, and I think one way to achieve that is by winning that Maine seat.”

Another co-host, Alyssa Farrar Griffin, was quick to voice her disapproval of Platner. “Honestly, I’m not too worried about his sexting issue,” she said. “But Platner has insulted Purple Heart recipients and even declared that he doesn’t deserve to live. He has a Nazi tattoo he’s hidden for 20 years, and has made homophobic remarks.” Griffin emphasized that there are other candidates who could serve the Democratic party better.

Co-host Sarah Haines echoed Griffin’s sentiments, labeling Platner unfit for public office. “This is a problem,” she remarked. “He insulted a Purple Heart recipient, who acted heroically to save his team.” Haines further asserted, “This man should not be anywhere near Congress.” She added that there are plenty of qualified individuals who could represent the party.

In light of these controversies, attention has turned to a little-known provision in Maine law that might allow the Democrats to replace Platner on the general election ballot after the primary.

Platner’s campaign did not immediately respond to requests for comments, although it acknowledged the existence of the explicit messages following reports by a national news outlet.

Overall, while the ongoing controversies make for a tumultuous campaign, the stakes for the Democratic Party are high as they seek to win back influence in Congress.