Rep. Jake Auchincloss (D-MA) has denied claims that he is supporting Sen. Susan Collins (R-ME) in the Maine Senate race. His denial follows backlash to his opposition to Democratic candidate Graham Platner's bid. Auchincloss stated during a CNN interview that he found Platner's tattoo, which resembled a Nazi symbol, and his comments about it to be disqualifying. This statement led to criticism from some Democrats who interpreted his opposition as support for Collins's reelection.
In a statement, Auchincloss rejected the accusations, asserting that he is committed to Democratic efforts to regain control of the Senate. He referred to Collins as a "rubber stamp for the worst administration in history" and emphasized his track record of supporting Democratic candidates. Despite this, he reiterated his stance against Platner, suggesting that he would vote for another candidate in the Maine Democratic primary.
A spokesperson for Collins's campaign responded by criticizing Auchincloss for opposing a candidate with a controversial past. Political strategist Rob Flaherty also expressed discontent with Auchincloss's comments, stating that supporting a Republican-controlled Senate is unacceptable for a Democrat. Other political figures, including Helen Brosnan from the United Auto Workers, echoed this sentiment, arguing that Auchincloss's stance undermines Democratic unity. Jason Poulos, a challenger in the Democratic primary, criticized Auchincloss for his opposition to Platner and questioned the influence of money in politics.