Maine Senate Candidate Graham Platner Faces Sexting Scandal
Maine Democratic Senate candidate Graham Platner is embroiled in a scandal after reports that his wife, Amy Gertner, alerted campaign staff last year about sexually explicit messages he sent to multiple women. Gertner publicly dismissed the coverage as "shameful gossip," while Sen. Cory Booker stated Platner has "questions to answer." The controversy adds to past issues, including a Nazi-symbol tattoo and offensive Reddit posts, though Platner retains endorsements from Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren. He is challenging incumbent Republican Sen. Susan Collins.
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Fetterman Rebukes Maine Democratic Nominee Platner as 'Not Even a Democrat'
Senator John Fetterman (D-Pa.) publicly criticized Graham Platner, the Democratic nominee in the Maine Senate race, during a Fox News interview on Friday. Fetterman stated that Platner, who is embroiled in scandals, is 'not even a Democrat' and accused the party of reluctantly embracing him due to a lack of alternatives. Fetterman sarcastically noted that the party, known for 'pearl clutching,' now has no choice but to support Platner. The rebuke highlights internal Democratic tensions over the candidate's controversial background and the party's electoral strategy in Maine.
Just In NewsUS Senate Candidate Graham Platner: Democratic Hope Marred by Scandals
Graham Platner, a former US soldier and oyster fisherman, won the Democratic Senate primary in Maine with nearly two-thirds of the vote. He is seen as a left-liberal hope for the party, running on a populist platform advocating universal healthcare, higher taxes on the wealthy, and a higher federal minimum wage. However, his campaign has been damaged by revelations of sexting scandals, a tattoo with Nazi symbolism (which he claims was gotten unknowingly and later covered), and old Reddit posts containing homophobic slurs and downplaying sexual assault in the military. Platner attributes his past behavior to untreated PTSD and alcohol abuse after military service, arguing that people can change. Despite the controversies, his personal rapport with voters in the small state of Maine helped secure his primary victory.
taz.de - taz.deGraham Platner Wins Maine Senate Primary, Testing New Strategy Against Susan Collins
This transcript from The New Republic's 'Right Now With Perry Bacon' features an interview with reporter Billy Kobin analyzing Graham Platner's surprise victory in the Maine Democratic Senate primary. Platner, a political newcomer and veteran, defeated two-term Governor Janet Mills by a wide margin. The discussion covers Platner's rapid rise from an unknown candidate to the party's nominee, fueled by national press attention, a populist message, and early endorsements from figures like Bernie Sanders. It also addresses recent controversies involving past text messages, which did not significantly damage his support among primary voters. The analysis suggests Platner's aggressive, anti-oligarchy rhetoric represents a strategic shift for Democrats trying to unseat incumbent Susan Collins, moving away from a more conciliatory approach.
The New RepublicDemocrats stick by Platner with Senate control on the line
Graham Platner, a progressive outsider and military veteran, won the Democratic Senate primary in Maine on June 9, 2026, defeating Governor Janet Mills who had dropped out but remained on the ballot. Despite controversies including past Reddit posts derogatory to women and minorities, a tattoo resembling a Nazi symbol, and reports of sexual text messages, Democratic leaders and voters have largely stood by him. Platner now faces Republican Senator Susan Collins in a race that could determine control of the Senate. Republicans are expected to heavily fund attacks branding Platner as unfit. Progressive allies view his victory as a mandate for economic populism and outsider politics.
Roll CallTrump Calls Graham Platner a ‘Thug’ After He Wins Maine Senate Primary
President Donald Trump criticized Democratic Senate nominee Graham Platner, calling him a 'thug' and 'worse than any human being that has ever run for office' after Platner decisively won the Maine Democratic Senate primary on Tuesday with 75% of the vote. Platner, who has been compared to Trump for his anti-establishment messaging and ability to overcome scandals, faced a series of allegations about troubling behavior towards women. He ran virtually uncontested after Governor Janet Mills stopped campaigning in April, though she remained on the ballot and received 19% of the vote. The article notes this is a developing story.
Forbes - BusinessTrump Attacks Maine Democratic Senate Candidate Graham Platner After Primary Win
President Donald Trump launched a verbal attack on Maine Democratic Senate candidate Graham Platner on Wednesday, calling him a 'low-level thug' and claiming he is 'worse than any human being that's ever run for office probably.' Platner, a progressive oyster farmer, won the Democratic primary on Tuesday, securing the party's nomination to challenge incumbent Republican Senator Susan Collins in the general election. Trump's remarks underscore the high stakes of the Maine Senate race, where Collins is seeking reelection in a state that has trended Democratic in recent years. Platner's primary victory positions him as a progressive challenger in a key battleground state.
Just In NewsGraham Platner Wins Maine Democratic Primary, Sets Up Challenge Against Susan Collins
Graham Platner, an oyster farmer and combat veteran, won the Maine Democratic primary for U.S. Senate on June 10, 2026, overcoming revelations about his past personal conduct. Platner, who had early support from Senator Bernie Sanders, channeled voter frustration over the high cost of living and stressed a message of redemption in his victory speech in Blue Hill, Maine. He will face Republican Senator Susan Collins in the general election, a race Democrats see as a top opportunity to flip a GOP-held seat. Platner criticized Collins for supporting endless wars and voting alongside Donald Trump, while Collins' campaign highlighted her experience and work for Maine communities. Democratic Governor Janet Mills, who had backed out of the race earlier, did not endorse Platner. Maine is the only state with a competitive Senate race where voters supported Kamala Harris over Trump in 2024.
Fortune | FORTUNEDemocratic Establishment Reluctantly Unites Behind Maine Senate Nominee Graham Platner
The Democratic establishment has begrudgingly rallied behind Graham Platner, the party's new Maine Senate nominee, following his primary win. While leaders like Chuck Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand issued statements supporting Platner, they focused heavily on defeating incumbent Republican Susan Collins, whom they paint as a Trump loyalist. Centrist Democrats remain concerned about Platner's controversies and ability to hold a broad coalition. Republicans immediately attacked Platner as a toxic candidate, with the National Republican Senatorial Committee releasing an ad highlighting his past. GOP groups have already booked nearly $70 million in TV ad time in Maine, far outpacing Democratic ad buys. Platner, backed by progressives, framed his campaign as a populist movement. The general election is expected to be one of the most closely watched Senate races in the country.
PoliticsDemocratic Establishment Reluctantly Unites Behind Maine Senate Nominee Graham Platner
The Democratic establishment has begrudgingly rallied behind Graham Platner, the party's new Maine Senate nominee, following his primary victory. While leaders like Chuck Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand issued statements supporting Platner, they focused heavily on defeating incumbent Republican Susan Collins rather than praising the candidate. Republicans immediately attacked Platner over his controversial past, including a tattoo and Kik messaging app profile, with the National Republican Senatorial Committee releasing a digital ad. GOP groups have already booked nearly $70 million in TV ad time in Maine, far outpacing Democratic reservations. Progressives celebrated Platner's win as a victory for economic populism, while centrist Democrats expressed concerns about his electability. Platner, in his victory speech, argued that focusing on his past is a losing strategy and framed his campaign as a movement. The general election race is expected to be one of the most closely watched Senate contests in the country.
PoliticsGraham Platner Wins Maine Democratic Senate Primary Amid Controversy Over Troubled Behavior
Graham Platner won Maine's Democratic Senate primary with 75% of the vote, effectively running uncontested after Governor Janet Mills suspended her campaign in April. Platner will face five-term Republican incumbent Susan Collins in November, a race rated as a toss-up by Cook Political Report and crucial for Democrats seeking to regain Senate control. However, Platner's campaign has been rocked by recent controversies, including reports from The New York Times that his wife flagged his exchanges of sexual messages with other women, and multiple ex-girlfriends described him as volatile, toxic, and unfaithful. One woman alleged he was physically rough while drinking and that he had a Nazi symbol tattoo, which Platner denied. Platner acknowledged past struggles with alcohol and poor behavior after combat service. Despite the controversies, Platner led Collins in a late May poll 51% to 42%, though his betting odds have decreased from a high of 73% in April to 58% on primary day.
Forbes - BusinessBernie Sanders Backs Graham Platner After Allegations of Toxic Relationships
Sen. Bernie Sanders reaffirmed support for Graham Platner, Maine's presumptive Democratic Senate nominee, after The New York Times reported allegations from multiple women describing disturbing or intimidating behavior in past romantic relationships. Sanders did not address the allegations directly, instead focusing on Platner's policy positions. Platner denied claims of physical intimidation, attributing some behavior to a dark period after combat service, but acknowledged past struggles with alcohol. His wife, Amy Gertner, had previously flagged sexually explicit texts he sent to other women to his campaign. A former campaign staffer criticized Platner, saying the Senate is not a training ground for redemption. Platner accused media outlets of journalistic malpractice and spreading gossip.
Forbes - BusinessGraham Platner Says His Past Was ‘Weaponized’ Amid New Allegations of Toxic Relationships
Graham Platner, Maine's presumptive Democratic Senate nominee, defended himself at a rally against a New York Times report in which multiple women accused him of disturbing behavior and creating 'toxic' relationships. Platner told supporters his past was being 'weaponized' against him. The allegations include claims from Lyndsey Fifield, who said Platner was 'cavalierly contemptuous of women’s emotions' and physically rough while drinking, though she said she was never struck. Jenny Racicot referenced controversial online posts Platner made about sexual assault. Platner's campaign strongly disputes claims of physical intimidation. The report follows earlier disclosures that Platner's wife flagged sexually explicit texts he sent to other women to his campaign. Platner accused media outlets of 'journalistic malpractice' and running 'gossip.' His wife released a video statement expressing anger that her disclosure was made public.
Forbes - BusinessMaine Senate Candidate Graham Platner Admits Sexting Issue Early in Marriage
Maine Democratic Senate hopeful Graham Platner acknowledged in an interview that his past sexting with multiple women was a problem he and his wife, Amy Gertner, addressed early in their marriage. When asked when the explicit messaging stopped, Platner told MS NOW that it ended soon after they got married. The admission comes as Platner campaigns for a U.S. Senate seat, potentially impacting his candidacy. The article, sourced from The Hill, highlights the personal controversy surrounding the candidate.
Just In NewsGraham Platner Faces New 'Toxic' Relationship Allegations After Sexting Scandal
Graham Platner, the presumptive Democratic nominee for Senate in Maine, faces fresh allegations from multiple women who described 'toxic' relationships and disturbing behavior in a New York Times report. Accusations include being 'cavalierly contemptuous of women's emotions' and rough physical contact while drinking, though no striking was alleged. Platner's campaign strongly disputes claims of physical intimidation but did not address remarks. The controversy follows a sexting scandal dismissed by Platner and his wife as 'gossip.' Progressive leaders like Bernie Sanders and Ruben Gallego continue to support Platner, citing personal growth. Platner's betting odds have plummeted, with the GOP nominee now favored at 52% compared to Democrats' 72.7% odds on May 22. Maine's primaries are June 9.
Forbes - BusinessGraham Platner Faces New Accusations of Toxic Relationships After Sexting Scandal
Graham Platner, the presumptive Democratic nominee for Senate in Maine, faces fresh allegations of toxic and intimidating behavior in relationships, as reported by The New York Times. Multiple women described disturbing conduct, including Lyndsey Fifield, who accused Platner of being rough while drinking, and Jenny Racicot, who referenced his controversial online posts. Platner's campaign strongly disputes claims of physical intimidation but did not address remarks. The allegations come days after Platner and his wife dismissed reports of him sexting other women while married. Betting odds on Kalshi have shifted dramatically, with the GOP nominee now favored at 52%, down from Democrats' 72.7% odds on May 22. Despite the controversies, progressive leaders like Sen. Bernie Sanders and Sen. Ruben Gallego continue to support Platner, citing personal growth. Maine's primaries are scheduled for June 9.
Forbes - BusinessBernie Sanders Comments on Endorsed Candidate Graham Platner Amid New Allegations
Senator Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) has addressed fresh criticism against Graham Platner, the Democratic candidate he endorsed in Maine's Senate race. Platner was already facing backlash over controversial social media posts and a chest tattoo that some have compared to Nazi insignia. Now, reports have emerged that he sent sexual messages to women other than his wife. Sanders acknowledged the controversy, stating he is sure Platner is 'not a saint,' but did not withdraw his endorsement. The situation adds complexity to the Maine Senate race, with Platner's candidacy under increasing scrutiny from multiple angles.
Just In NewsGraham Platner's Betting Odds Fall in Maine Senate Race Amid Sexting Scandal
Graham Platner, the presumptive Democratic nominee for Maine's U.S. Senate seat, has seen his betting odds drop to 54% on Kalshi amid a sexting scandal, down from 72% last month. The controversy stems from reports that his wife, Amy Gertner, disclosed sexually explicit texts he sent to multiple women to his campaign last year. Platner and his wife have dismissed the reports as 'gossip,' and progressive leaders including Sen. Bernie Sanders have defended him, urging focus on issues like rising living costs. Despite the scandal, Polymarket shows Platner with 63% odds. Meanwhile, Gov. Janet Mills, who suspended her own campaign, reminded voters she remains on the ballot. Platner, an oyster farmer and Marine Corps veteran, previously faced controversy over old social media posts where he called himself a 'communist' and made derogatory remarks about white rural residents. The primary is scheduled for June 9.
Forbes - BusinessThe View Hosts Slam Maine Senate Candidate Over Sexting Scandal
Multiple hosts on ABC's 'The View' criticized Maine Democratic Senate candidate Graham Platner following reports that he sent sexually explicit messages to women after marrying his wife. Alyssa Farah Griffin, a former White House communications director under President Trump, was among those who condemned Platner's actions. The controversy adds to a litany of issues surrounding Platner's campaign, potentially impacting the Maine Senate race. The segment highlighted the candidate's personal conduct as a political liability.
Just In NewsProgressive Leaders Stand by Maine Senate Candidate Graham Platner Amid Sexting Scandal
Progressive leaders including Senators Bernie Sanders, Elizabeth Warren, and Ruben Gallego are publicly dismissing a sexting controversy surrounding Maine Democratic Senate candidate Graham Platner. Reports published over the weekend revealed Platner had sent sexually explicit messages to women other than his wife in the past. Sanders told reporters voters care more about economic issues like gas prices and health care, while Warren also brushed off concerns. Gallego defended Platner as someone who 'has grown as a person.' Platner's wife, Amy Gertner, released a video statement calling the reports 'gossip' and saying the couple is in counseling. The controversy adds to Platner's history of scandals, including a Nazi-linked tattoo he says he got while drunk in the military. Maine Governor Janet Mills, who suspended her campaign but remains on the ballot, reminded voters she is still an option. The Democratic primary is June 9, with the winner likely facing incumbent Republican Senator Susan Collins.
Forbes - BusinessSanders Stands by Endorsement of Maine Senate Candidate Platner Amid Sex Messages Scandal
Senator Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) reaffirmed his endorsement of Democratic Maine Senate candidate Graham Platner on Monday, despite media reports that Platner sent sexual messages to multiple women while married. Sanders told reporters he is not reconsidering his support, emphasizing Platner's commitment to challenging corporate interests and advocating for progressive policies like universal healthcare. The controversy has not swayed Sanders, who views Platner as a strong candidate to take on establishment politics. The article highlights the tension between personal scandals and political endorsements in the 2024 election cycle.
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