On Friday, the Republican National Committee is set to unveil a new video showcasing Democratic leaders struggling to provide clear answers regarding Maine Senator Graham Platner. Platner’s recent controversies have placed the party on the defensive in a race that Democrats consider pivotal for obtaining a Senate majority.
The four-minute video, shared exclusively with Breitbart News, combines headlines and news clips covering the allegations against Mr. Platner. It features Democratic senators, representatives, governors, and candidates being queried about their support for Platner, his qualifications for the U.S. Senate, and their willingness to campaign alongside him.
The video contains various mentions, some of which were highlighted by RNC Research, showing Democrats either defending or evading questions regarding Platner.
For instance, Senator Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD) commented on Platner’s issues, saying, “I don’t know him,” but also asserted, “I support the Democratic Party. We need a Democratic Party in government.”
Senator Michael Bennet (D-CO) was asked if Platner met the “high standards” for the Senate; he replied, “I’m busy running for governor of Colorado.”
Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) remarked on NBC, “He has a lot of problems, but what can I say, we need a Senate.” When questioned about campaigning in Maine, he stated, “I have no plans.”
Moreover, Senator Chris Coons (D-DE) was asked whether he would campaign with Platner this fall. He mentioned focusing on his own campaign and supporting his current colleagues instead.
Matt Dunlap, a Democrat vying for Maine’s 2nd Congressional District, expressed his support for Platner despite the controversies.
Senator Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) dismissed one of the issues, referring to Platner’s Nazi tattoo as a “stupid tattoo” and suggested that associating with anti-Semites was acceptable since other Democrats do the same.
Congressman John Garamendi (D-CA) reacted to questions about Platner’s qualifications, noting, “He certainly has many good qualities” while acknowledging, “like most people, there are bumps along the way.”
After a meeting with Platner, Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) expressed her optimism about winning in Maine.
Congressman Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ) criticized Platner, urging viewers to consider accusations regarding his alleged “abuse of women,” in addition to the previously mentioned tattoos.
Congressman Adam Gray (D-CA) hesitated when asked about supporting Platner, showcasing some uncertainty: “There was a lot of ‘what should I do’ mentality,” before admitting, “I don’t know much about him.”
Senator Martin Heinrich (D-NM) noted that in light of resurfaced posts where Platner made controversial statements, he would not reconsider his support, adding that Platner “admits” he was wrong and deserves a second chance.
Representative Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA) was approached about supporting Platner, especially given his family history. She expressed reluctance to make that decision for the Maine electorate, wishing him success instead.
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY) indicated he was more focused on ensuring Democrats reclaimed control of the House than on Platner’s viability as a Senate candidate.
Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA) remarked that the choice ultimately lies with Maine voters regarding Platner’s potential as a colleague with a Nazi tattoo.
Congressman Ro Khanna (D-CA) weighed in on the allegations against Platner, stating he believed the women involved while acknowledging widespread support for him among Democrats.
Senator Andy Kim (D-NJ) expressed he hadn’t given much thought to Platner’s controversies, emphasizing that voters would ultimately choose. When questioned further, he mentioned, “We have never met.”
Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL) mentioned he had doubts about Platner’s representation of the Democratic Party, voicing “strong concerns” at this stage.
Senator Ed Markey (D-MA) indicated ongoing work on issues that matter to constituents while expressing some reservation about supporting Platner’s campaign.
Senator Jeff Merkley (D-OR) stated it should be left up to Maine residents to determine if Platner is the right candidate for them.
Congressman Seth Moulton (D-MA) defended Platner amid controversy surrounding his tattoos, insisting, “I don’t think that’s a disqualification.”
Senator Chris Murphy (D-CT) mentioned that he hadn’t been closely following the incidents but noted that character includes standing against corruption.
Governor Gavin Newsom (D-CA) laughed while defending Platner, insisting he had never heard allegations suggesting abusive or discriminatory behavior from him.
Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY) acknowledged the challenging nature of Platner’s behavior while emphasizing that it requires a choice by the electorate.
Senator Bernie Sanders (I-VT) reiterated his support for Platner when questioned about his controversial actions.
Senator Adam Schiff (D-CA), when asked about his support for Platner, simply said, “I’ll go upstairs, thank you.”
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) reaffirmed his support for Platner amidst questions, confirming repeatedly, “I support Graham Platner.”
Congressman Greg Stanton (D-AZ) pointed out that it’s ultimately up to Maine voters to decide about Platner’s qualifications.
Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) commended Platner for capturing voter attention despite the controversies.
Florida Democratic U.S. Senate candidate Alex Vindman mentioned the concerns surrounding Platner’s tattoos and questioned if he should remain a candidate.
Senator Mark Warner (D-VA) indicated his focus remained firmly on his own campaign rather than Platner’s impact on the Democratic Party’s chances.
Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) noted Platner had apologized and discussed the serious allegations he faces.
Democratic Congressman James Walkinshaw emphasized the importance of accountability and growth for candidates with past mistakes, suggesting Platner has shown some responsibility.
Senator Raphael Warnock (D-GA) highlighted the importance of character in political leadership.
Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) expressed skepticism regarding the allegations against Platner, stating that criticisms largely stemmed from individuals in right-wing politics.
Platner, who recently won Maine’s Democratic Senate primary, will be competing against incumbent Senator Susan Collins (R-Maine) in the forthcoming election.
Breitbart News Senior Writer John Nolte shared an incident where Rep. Moulton confronted a journalist regarding questions about his support for Platner, expressing frustration and referring to the reporter as partisan.
Moulton’s campaign subsequently accused a media outlet of harassment, asserting his readiness to challenge right-wing narratives.
Former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo criticized Democratic leaders for their unwavering support for Platner amidst serious allegations, arguing that they had prioritized a candidate from the far-left over a stronger opponent to Collins.
President Donald Trump also commented earlier this month on Democrats’ standing in the polls, asserting that the Republican Party is gaining momentum by contrasting “lunatics” on ballots, including “a guy from Maine with a swastika.”
