Rep. Jake Auchincloss (D-MA) did not endorse Democratic Senate candidate Graham Platner during an interview on CNN, citing concerns over a tattoo that resembles Nazi imagery. Platner, who is the only remaining candidate for the Democratic Senate nomination in Maine, has faced criticism for a previously visible tattoo of the Death’s Head symbol, which was associated with the Nazi regime. Auchincloss stated, "I find that tattoo and his commentary about it to be personally disqualifying," and expressed hope that Maine voters would share his view.
Platner explained that he received the tattoo in his 20s without knowledge of its meaning, describing it as a "terrifying looking skull and crossbones" and asserting that he is "not a secret Nazi." Auchincloss had previously urged Platner to withdraw from the Senate race last October, but with Gov. Janet Mills (D-ME) now out of the race, Platner is positioned to challenge incumbent Sen. Susan Collins (R-ME).
Some members of the Democratic Party, including California congressional candidate Saikat Chakrabarti, criticized Auchincloss for his stance, suggesting that he is inadvertently supporting Collins. Chakrabarti remarked that there is "absolutely no excuse for a Democrat in the House to back a Republican for Senate in a crucial swing seat."
Auchincloss reiterated his belief that Platner's approach does not align with the Democratic Party's goals for maintaining majorities. Platner has received support from progressive figures, including Senators Bernie Sanders (I-VT) and Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), despite the controversies surrounding his campaign. Recent polling indicates that Platner holds a 7-percentage-point lead over Collins.