Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) expressed concerns regarding Maine Senate candidate Graham Platner, suggesting that his actions may undermine the Democratic Party's chances to defeat incumbent Senator Susan Collins (R-ME) in the upcoming midterm elections. During an interview on ABC News, Booker affirmed that he believes Platner could jeopardize the Democratic hopes for the Senate seat. Platner's campaign confirmed reports that his wife discovered sexually explicit texts with multiple women on his phone last summer.
Booker stated, "Yeah, I have concerns. That guy has questions to answer, and that’s what campaigns are for." He also highlighted the importance of Democrats gaining control of the Senate to address issues related to rising living costs and the presidency of Donald Trump.
The recent report about Platner's extramarital relationships adds to scrutiny surrounding him, including past controversial social media activity and a tattoo featuring a Nazi symbol. The Washington Examiner confirmed that an account on Kik, a messaging platform, belongs to Platner.
Senators Andy Kim (D-NJ) and Chris Murphy (D-CT) also commented on the situation, with Murphy acknowledging Platner's mistakes but defending his character. Kim stated he has been focused on his home state and has not met Platner, while Rep. Jake Auchincloss (D-MA) described Platner's tattoo as "personally disqualifying."
Platner's wife, Amy Gertner, released a statement expressing her loyalty to him and mentioned that they are receiving marriage counseling. She expressed frustration over the focus on the report instead of Platner's campaign issues.
Maine law permits Platner to withdraw from the general election before July 13, allowing the Democratic Party to nominate a replacement candidate even if he wins the primary on June 9. The party would need to nominate a replacement by July 27.
Booker, who is also a potential candidate for the 2028 presidential election, is up for reelection in November. A recent University of New Hampshire poll indicates Platner holds a 9 percentage-point lead over Collins, making the race significant for the Democrats' efforts to regain control of the Senate.