Support Grows for Maine Senate Candidate Graham Platner
Senators Chuck Schumer from New York and Ed Markey from Massachusetts are among the prominent Democrats rallying behind Graham Platner, the Senate candidate facing several controversies.
In Maine, progressive oyster farmers have recently secured a significant victory, deciding the Democratic nomination—which will be confirmed Tuesday night. This conclusion was largely expected after Governor Janet Mills, a fellow Democrat, paused her campaign in April. Despite Mills remaining on the ballot, Platner captured an impressive 72% of the vote, positioning him for a general election against five-term incumbent Senator Susan Collins.
“In November, Maine voters will choose Graham Platner, and we will gain a Senate majority,” remarked Senator Schumer.
Before the election night, Platner had also garnered endorsements from several notable figures, including Senators Bernie Sanders, Elizabeth Warren, Ruben Gallego, Martin Heinrich, and Representative Ro Khanna. However, some moderate Democrats have been hesitant to back Platner due to his troubled background. Issues from his past include a concealed chest tattoo reminiscent of symbols used by Nazi concentration camp guards, inappropriate messages sent during his marriage, and Reddit posts minimizing the severity of military sexual assault.
Schumer, who had previously favored Mills, released a joint statement with Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, asserting their confidence in Platner’s chances: “Maine voters will select Graham Platner in November, and together we will secure a Senate majority.”
In response to inquiries from reporters regarding Platner’s primary success, Gillibrand echoed her confidence: “We’re going to win Maine and flip the Senate,” she stated.
After Platner’s nomination, Senator Markey expressed his support on social media, stating, “Washington requires more leaders who challenge corporate interests, advocate for working families, and address the climate crisis. That’s precisely what Graham Platner stands for in Maine, and he’ll be crucial for regaining the Senate majority.”
Markey’s statement contrasted his recent awkward interview, where he sidestepped directly endorsing Platner but acknowledged his campaign’s grassroots appeal in Maine.
Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey has also indicated her willingness to support Platner against Collins, albeit while criticizing some of his past remarks, saying, “I’m fatigued by all of this. [Platner] is problematic, but we face a clear choice in November. On one hand, we have him, and on the other, there’s Susan Collins, who aligns with Trump.”
Sens. Peter Welch and Brian Schatz have refrained from formal endorsements. Welch acknowledged the voters’ decision while Schatz is working to support Platner’s funding efforts.
“There’s a great deal of controversy surrounding him, yet Maine Democrats made a solid choice in the primary,” Welch pointed out.
Senator Tina Smith shared her views on social media, complimenting Platner’s passionate commitment to Maine residents.
Platner, in his victory speech, reflected on his past mistakes, stating, “I’ve made choices I regret, and I’m learning. Perfection remains a journey for me.”
