In a political landscape marked by controversy and scandal, Maine Democratic Senate hopeful Graham Platner finds himself embroiled in a series of damaging revelations that threaten his campaign against incumbent Republican Senator Susan Collins.
A recent poll commissioned by the Democratic organization EMILYs List indicates that Platner would face a significant defeat in a general election matchup against Collins. Despite Maine's tendency to lean Democratic, Platner trails Collins by nine points when voters are presented with both positive and negative narratives about him, as reported by The Washington Free Beacon.
According to an EMILYs List memo obtained by Politico, Platner's support dwindles further when voters are exposed to additional information, including his own controversial online statements and details about a Nazi tattoo he once had. This revelation has led to a dramatic 19-point lead for Collins in a state that typically favors Democratic candidates. The memo highlights that even in a partisan environment favorable to Democrats, Platner's past actions and statements have significantly undermined his campaign.
Maine is a key target for Democrats in the upcoming Senate elections, yet Platner's candidacy has been marred by a series of controversies. Reports have surfaced detailing his past Reddit posts, where he made inflammatory remarks such as "all" cops being bastards, identified as a communist, and blamed sexual assault victims for their own assaults. Additionally, he has advocated for violence against those he labels as fascists. In one particularly damaging post, Platner commented, "Living in white rural America, I'm afraid to tell you they actually are," in response to a discussion about racism and intelligence among white rural populations, presumably referencing his home state of Maine.
The fallout from these controversies has been swift and severe. Platner admitted to having a Nazi symbol tattoo, which he has since covered up, further fueling the scandal. His campaign has experienced a mass exodus of staff, including the resignation of his finance director, who cited a misalignment of professional standards, and his treasurer. Platner's second campaign manager departed after a mere three days, and his political director resigned, later revealing she declined a $15,000 offer to sign a nondisclosure agreement.
Despite Platner's attempts to distance himself from his past, offering apologies and asserting that his previous statements do not reflect his current beliefs, the EMILYs List poll suggests that Mainers remain unconvinced. "A lengthy response from Platner, constructed with his own language, does not change the deep deficit he faces," the memo states, noting that Collins maintains a commanding lead, with support well above 50%.
The Democratic primary race presents a mixed picture, with varying poll results. One survey last month showed Platner trailing his closest competitor, Governor Janet Mills, by five points. However, another poll conducted before the Nazi tattoo controversy broke, showed Platner with a substantial 34-point lead.
As the election approaches, Platner's campaign faces an uphill battle to regain trust and credibility among Maine voters.
Login