Graham Platner: The Democrat Senate Candidate in Maine
Graham Platner, an oyster farmer and emerging political figure in the Maine Senate primary, is viewed as a grassroots contender capable of challenging supporters of Donald Trump. However, his history presents a more nuanced picture.
As reported by the New York Times, Platner, who served as a Marine in Iraq three times, is described as a newcomer in politics. His campaign emphasizes improving the lives of working-class citizens in Maine as he takes on incumbent Republican Senator Susan Collins.
“I’m a veteran, an oysterman, and a working-class leader. This situation doesn’t reflect the interests of the workers anymore,” Platner stated in a social media post.
In a recent interview, Platner expressed that he neither identifies as a progressive nor a centrist.
He found it amusing to think that he could face a backlash from Trump supporters, noting that many of his friends and colleagues had voted for Trump.
However, Platner’s social media history from his time as a George Washington University student and a State Department employee suggests a differing narrative. He has shared content supporting Vermont Senators Bernie Sanders and even mockingly referred to Trump in retweets, alongside donations to top Democrats like Kamala Harris and Sanders.
Onlookers have noted his progressive stance on several issues. Platner advocates for businesses to be held accountable for climate change and supports universal healthcare. He has also described the situation in Gaza as “genocide,” suggesting it’s a critical moral issue of our times.
Questions arise regarding his affiliations, as Platner’s initial campaign advertisement was produced by Fight Agency, a media firm known for working with various Democratic candidates and causes.
Morris Katz, a senior advisor from Fight Agency, referred to Platner as “the real deal.” Meanwhile, Joe Calvello, another advisor, has a background that includes roles in Hillary Clinton’s campaign and with Sanders. Notably, Calvello faced pushback from progressives due to his previous association with Fetterman, a senator with pro-Israel sentiments.
Interestingly, Platner has expressed a mix of admiration and humor regarding the label of “liberal.” A competitive pistol shooter, he mentioned his extensive background with firearms stemming from his military service and life in rural Maine.
After the campaign’s launch, David Hogg, a gun control advocate and former DNC vice-chairman, endorsed Platner, praising his oyster farming and potential Senate candidacy.
Platner was also seen at a protest in Ellsworth, Maine, wearing a construction vest and participating in a rally that criticized the Trump administration.
Originally from Sullivan, Maine, Platner returned home in 2016 after working as a security contractor in Afghanistan and decided to pursue aquaculture. With support from his community, he grew his business and is now campaigning, often criticizing billionaires for issues affecting the working class. His campaign materials emphasize themes of combating oligarchy.
In early 2021, however, Platner sought assistance from a fund established by a billionaire, which stands in slight contrast to his ongoing rhetoric against the wealthy.
His campaign centers around securing small business grants while navigating various community connections and endorsements. As the fight for the Senate seat intensifies, Democrats are hopeful about breaking Collins’ long-standing hold on the position.
While potential challengers are emerging in the Democratic primary, the party is still looking for a strong candidate. Former Governor Janet Mills may still join the race, though she has yet to make her intentions clear, especially after Collins fended off a challenge from Sarah Gideon in 2020, despite a strong pre-election lead.
