Democrats in Maine’s 2nd Congressional District are supporting Senate candidate Graham Platner despite opposition from some centrists within the party. Following the exit of Governor Janet Mills from the Senate race in late April, leading Democratic candidates have endorsed Platner ahead of the June 9 primary. However, retiring Rep. Jared Golden has not endorsed Platner and has indicated he will not participate in the Senate race.
Maine State Auditor Matt Dunlap and former congressional aide Jordan Wood have explicitly endorsed Platner, while State Senator Joe Baldacci has also shown support. Despite this, the candidates have not addressed Platner’s controversial social media posts and a tattoo resembling a Nazi symbol, which have drawn criticism from some Democrats.
The Cook Political Report rates the open House race as "Likely Republican," reflecting the district's Republican leanings. Dunlap is scheduled to appear with Platner at a rally featuring Rep. Ro Khanna, who has endorsed both candidates. Dunlap expressed his support for Platner on social media, stating he would be a strong senator.
The National Republican Congressional Committee is leveraging the candidates' association with Platner to highlight perceived judgment issues among Democrats in a predominantly Republican district. Centrist Democrats, including Senator John Fetterman and Representative Jake Auchincloss, have criticized Platner, with Auchincloss calling his tattoo and comments disqualifying. Senior Democrats in Washington have largely refrained from commenting on Platner’s controversies, indicating a divide within the party regarding his candidacy.