Maine Senate candidate Graham Platner did not answer questions from reporters on Tuesday as he arrived for a meeting at the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee. This comes amid allegations related to a sexting scandal and resurfaced online posts. When asked if he was there to address concerns, Platner did not respond. He also did not answer questions regarding his suitability to represent Maine in the U.S. Senate or past controversies.
Platner, who is reportedly leading in the polls, attended a scheduled meeting with Democratic senators in Washington, D.C. Concerns have arisen from both political parties regarding allegations of sexual misconduct and infidelity. His wife, Amy Gertner, reportedly found explicit text exchanges between Platner and multiple women shortly after their marriage in 2024. Platner's campaign confirmed the existence of these messages to Politico.
In a statement, Platner acknowledged the difficulties he and his wife faced, expressing gratitude for her support. He emphasized that voters are more concerned about issues like healthcare and education than personal controversies.
Additionally, it was reported that Platner has an active account on Kik, an anonymous messaging app, which has drawn criticism for its association with anonymous encounters. A campaign official stated that Platner downloaded the app while single and claimed it has since been deleted.
Further controversies include deleted online posts and a tattoo linked to Nazi imagery. Platner, a Marine Corps veteran, faced backlash for a 2019 Reddit post in which he made derogatory comments about a Purple Heart veteran. He has not apologized for these remarks.
Platner is set to appear on the ballot alongside David Costello in the Democratic Senate primary in Maine on June 9, where voters will choose who will face incumbent Republican Senator Susan Collins in the November election.
