<p>Maine Senate candidate Graham Platner responded to Senator John Fetterman (D-PA) on social media after Fetterman suggested that he would wear a suit daily if Platner released alleged texts and messages sent to other women. Fetterman made the comments during an appearance on Fox News’s “Saturday in America,” noting that he had not heard from Platner regarding the proposed deal.</p>
<p>In his response, Platner stated, “John Fetterman seems to genuinely think that the reason no one likes him is because he refuses to wear a suit. It’s not the hoodie, dude. It’s because you’ve become a stooge for AIPAC and the Republican party.” Platner's remarks came shortly after he held a get-out-the-vote rally in Bar Harbor, Maine, where he described the controversies surrounding his candidacy as “politically motivated” and “false.”</p>
<p>During the rally, Platner addressed past comments he made online, stating, “When hurtful things I said on the internet a decade ago came out into the public, as I shared my personal journey through PTSD and darkness of recovery and accountability and growth, Maine had my back.” He emphasized that he felt supported as his past was scrutinized.</p>
<p>A report by the New York Times detailed allegations of “unsettling behavior” from three women who dated Platner, along with claims that he sent sexually explicit texts to other women while married. Representative Ro Khanna, a supporter of Platner, defended him at the rally, stating that “no one should make excuses for his past relationships” and emphasized the importance of respecting women.</p>
<p>Platner is the presumptive Democratic nominee to challenge incumbent Senator Susan Collins (R-ME). Governor Janet Mills had suspended her campaign in April but is considering re-entering the race ahead of the upcoming primary.</p>
<p>Recent polling indicates that the percentage of individuals viewing Platner unfavorably has nearly doubled.</p>
