On Tuesday, former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo (D) criticized the Democratic Party for continuing to back Graham Platner, the Maine Democratic Senate candidate, in light of multiple controversies.
During an episode of his show “The People’s Heartbeat,” Cuomo remarked that Democratic leaders have often overlooked Platner’s issues because he embodies the progressive faction of the party.
“Why support Platner, who has so many troubles that the far left makes excuses for? Nazi tattoos? ‘No big deal.’ Is he anti-police? ‘Sorry.’ Did the woman make the accusation? ‘I forgive that,'” Cuomo expressed. “They excuse everything with this absolutist mindset. If someone identifies as a Democrat, they get support from Democrats, no questions asked.”
He further contended that the party is prioritizing ideological compatibility over selecting a strong candidate to challenge the current Senator Susan Collins (R-Maine).
“He’s not the most viable candidate against Susan Collins, but that didn’t seem to matter. What matters is he represents the extreme left and waves their flag—that was their priority over actually defeating Susan Collins,” Cuomo added.
Platner is now under renewed scrutiny after old posts from his former Reddit account emerged, featuring graphic sexual remarks and comments regarding political issues and veterans. Although most of his online content was erased, it remains available through the Internet Archive and has been examined by various news organizations.
One particularly contentious post came from a 2014 Reddit thread where users shared the “shittest, most mind-blowing, offensive jokes” they knew. Under the username “P-Hustle,” Platner shared jokes that touched on incest, bestiality, and necrophilia. Other archived comments included explicit sexual remarks, and a post from 2013 criticized individuals who were so intoxicated they “lose control” in discussions about sexual assault.
Despite the ongoing controversies, Platner recently secured the Maine Democratic Senate primary and is set to compete against incumbent Collins in the general election this November.
