Hillary Clinton on Graham Platner’s Candidacy

Former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton refrained from giving a straightforward endorsement for Graham Platner, the Democratic Senate candidate from Maine, during a recent appearance. She mentioned, “I feel about him the same way I feel about other candidates. I want to see what kind of candidate he will actually be.”

Clinton acknowledged the challenges Platner has faced, labeling the situation as “difficult” for his character. When questioned about whether these challenges might affect his campaign, she conceded that, indeed, he has had some missteps. “Are there any bumps in the road?” asked David Remnick, editor of The New Yorker. Clinton responded affirmatively, highlighting that Platner “lost his way” due to some of his past actions and statements. She expressed that beating Susan Collins, the incumbent senator from Maine, would be a tough task, saying, “I have reservations.”

Remnick probed further, asking where she might cast her vote if she were a Maine resident. Clinton lightheartedly replied, “I’m not a Maine person. I’m a New Yorker.”

Shifting her focus, Clinton emphasized the significance of Democrats reclaiming the House majority by 2026. Platner has been at the center of various controversies since his campaign began, which include allegations of sending sexually suggestive messages, offensive social media posts, and issues relating to his tattoos and interactions with staff. Most recently, a New York Times report brought to light new allegations involving violent behavior towards an ex-girlfriend.

While some Democratic officials have rallied to support Platner, many have opted not to completely dissociate from him amidst the ongoing scandals.