Maine Senate Candidate Discusses Health History at Event

Democratic Senate candidate Graham Platner took a bold step during a pro-family planning event on Monday, sharing his personal experience with being tested for sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

Platner’s comments came after he received backing from the Family Planning Activity Fund. The event primarily focused on various topics, including abortion, health care policy, and a critical look at Senator Collins’ 2018 vote to confirm Justice Brett Kavanaugh.

While addressing health care access, Platner shared with the audience that he was tested for STIs through Planned Parenthood when he was younger. He made a light-hearted comment that drew laughter: “I got a treat when I was younger. Well, what do you mean? I got tested for STIs.” He emphasized that there’s no shame in this and that it’s important, especially for young people.

During his remarks, Platner pushed for universal health coverage and acknowledged the essential services provided by family planning organizations. He touched on his own experience with care received through VA benefits, noting that this type of system isn’t universally accessible.

WATCH: Graham Platner reveals he was tested for sexually transmitted infections during Planned Parenthood pic.twitter.com/vCsCxWC8ok

— Daily Caller (@DailyCaller) June 23, 2026

However, Platner’s past continues to attract attention. A recent New York Times article outlined testimonies from several ex-girlfriends, who described their encounters with him as “volatile” and “toxic.” The Times spoke with more than 20 individuals, including former associates of Democratic candidates.

Some ex-girlfriends reported feeling intimidated by his behavior. For example, Lindsey Fifield mentioned instances during arguments where Platner’s grip left marks, describing moments that left her feeling frightened.

Earlier reports also indicated that Platner, who is married, had sent sexually explicit messages to multiple women. This has compounded various scandals he has faced recently, including resurfaced comments he made in a Reddit post that downplayed sexual assault.

Democratic opponents have leveraged these incidents to criticize Collins, suggesting she was either misleading voters or misled herself when she backed Kavanaugh’s nomination.

Collins describes herself as a supporter of abortion rights while also backing some Republican judicial candidates and is currently campaigning for re-election. Support for family planning is considered one of the most significant endorsements of Platner’s campaign thus far.