Recent reports have revealed more contentious social media posts by Graham Platner, a Maine Senate candidate hoping to unseat Republican Senator Susan Collins.
According to the Bangor Daily News, Platner, who has already distanced himself from previous posts on Reddit, made a controversial remark questioning why black people “don’t tip” in a thread discussing questions people have for those of different races.
“As a bartender, I’ve always been struck by how persistent this stereotype is,” Platner reportedly stated, noting that while some black patrons leave tips of 15 to 20 percent, others often tip between 0 and 5%. “There must be a reason, but what is it?” he asked.
Additionally, reports indicated that Platner shared comments regarding violence and sexual assault in the military, which he has denied in various media statements.
Politico noted that he previously stated, “Those who expect to fight fascism without a good semi-automatic rifle should read a little history,” declaring that “an armed working class is necessary for economic justice.”
The Washington Post highlighted that Platner also questioned the challenges military women face when reporting assault by superiors.
“Honestly, I had no idea what you were referring to,” he told the Post. “I’ve been on the other side of these discussions for a while now.”
He added, “I don’t want people to judge me based on the most foolish thing I said online a dozen years ago. I want them to see who I am today.”
Platner’s controversial Reddit posts began emerging this week. He’s also publicly labeled himself a “communist” and made disparaging remarks about police officers.
Following his military service, he expressed how disillusioned he felt with the government that sent him abroad, as he witnessed the loss of friends.
Alternately a veteran of the Marine Corps and U.S. Army, Platner has completed four combat tours in Iraq. He announced his bid against Collins in August, gaining significant attention and raising over $4 million shortly after declaring his candidacy. Senator Bernie Sanders (D-Vermont) previously characterized him as “a strong working-class candidate for the Senate seat in Maine who can defeat Susan Collins.”
It’s worth noting that Platner deleted his Reddit posts prior to launching his Senate campaign. His comments gained traction following Maine Governor Janet Mills’s announcement of her Senate candidacy. If successful, Mills, aged 77, would become the oldest freshman senator in U.S. history.
