Maine Republican Sen. Trey Stewart has voiced strong concerns about the Democrats’ endorsement of controversial Sen. Graham Platner. He suggests that if Platner were to secure a Senate seat in November, it could lead the party into “dangerous territory.”
“Voters are quite worried,” Stewart shared, commenting on the backlash against Platner. This includes earlier social media posts where Platner called himself a “communist” and “socialist,” along with some offensive remarks against the military and homophobic slurs.
Despite Platner leading in the polls, Stewart believes that incumbent Republican Sen. Susan Collins will emerge victorious in what he describes as a “moderate” Maine. He insists Platner’s campaign won’t resonate with the state’s citizens, suggesting that “Maine people don’t subscribe to Platner’s kind of thinking.”
“Susan Collins is a key voice in the U.S. Senate and brings considerable influence for Maine,” Stewart said, expressing confidence in her impending victory. “Maine overall leans centrist.” He pointed out that Collins faced a similar situation in 2020 when she lagged behind progressive Sarah Gideon but ultimately won in a fiercely competitive race.
Stewart noted that voters in Maine typically steer clear of extreme candidates, asserting that Platner’s positions are unlikely to gain traction in the upcoming election. He characterized the Democrats’ support for Platner as “embarrassing,” suggesting it represents broader issues within the party.
“It’s embarrassing for the Democratic Party to lean towards the extreme factions, not only in Maine but nationally,” he lamented. “If that continues, it could lead to significant challenges for them and our nation as a whole.”
Platner, a Marine veteran with service in Iraq and Afghanistan, has faced scrutiny for his earlier posts on Reddit that drew criticism, particularly for not providing sufficient explanations or apologies.
In a troubling instance from 2019, Platner made light of a Purple Heart veteran’s experience during a violent confrontation, stating the veteran “didn’t deserve to live.” His response to this controversy has not included any admissions of wrongdoing.
Stewart highlighted the need for Platner to take accountability, asserting, “He owes apologies for those offensive remarks. Beyond that, someone like him doesn’t belong in the United States Senate.” He added, “He really needs help, not a Senate seat.”
Following Democratic Governor Janet Mills’ decision to suspend her Senate campaign last month, Platner emerged as the Democratic nominee in the primary set for June 9, which will determine the challenger to Collins in November.
