Political Turmoil in Maine Senate Race
A Jewish Democratic official and member of the House Intelligence Committee has urged Graham Platner, a Senate candidate from Maine, to withdraw from the race, suggesting that a “scandal-plagued” oyster farmer like him would not succeed in New Jersey.
Congressman Josh Gottheimer, who recently received attention in a profile that likened him to Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, emphasized that the party’s midterm elections have no place for Platner. He indicated that if Graham Platner succeeds today, he should resign and allow another Democrat the opportunity to step in.
When asked about his feelings towards Platner, Gottheimer didn’t directly endorse moderate Republican Senator Susan Collins, instead saying, “No, I think if Platner wins, he’ll resign because there’s no real competition against him.”
Platner is currently leading in the primary after Governor Janet Mills suspended her campaign, and fellow candidates have struggled to gain traction.
Gottheimer commented on Platner’s controversial past, saying, “If he were in New Jersey and there was a candidate with such serious allegations, he’d definitely be removed. His numerous lies and extremist comments make it clear he should not be on the ballot.”
The Congressman asserted that if Platner were to run in New Jersey, he would likely face immediate removal from the ballot. He recalled former Teamsters president James Hoffa Sr., suggesting that some candidates simply don’t belong in the race.
Gottheimer reiterated that socialists do not truly represent the Democratic Party, citing a disconnect between the left and mainstream views in America. He believes it is essential to take a stand against problematic candidates like Platner.
Despite asserting that Platner wouldn’t be the final candidate opposing Collins, Gottheimer hinted at Mills’ previous statement that her campaign was merely suspended, not over.
He raised concerns about how female voters might respond to someone facing allegations of violence against women and expressed skepticism regarding Platner’s ability to continue as a viable candidate.
In a separate context, Gottheimer humorously blamed President Trump for the Knicks’ recent home game loss, noting the mixed reaction Trump received from the audience.
While Gottheimer, along with Senator John Fetterman, has criticized Platner, he still retains support from political strategist James Carville, who suggested that voters consider Platner’s difficult background in oyster farming and his experiences with PTSD.
Fox News Digital has attempted to reach out for a response from Platner’s campaign.
