Maine voters are heading to the polls for primary elections that include a critical Senate race involving the scandal-plagued Graham Platner. The oysterman and Marine veteran has faced a string of controversies, from alleged toxic behavior toward women to a tattoo recognized as a Nazi symbol, sparking debates among Democrats about double standards and purity tests.
Final Twist in the Race
On Monday, Genevieve McDonald, a former political director of Platner’s campaign, published a column denouncing him as unfit for office. “Graham Platner is not someone who would be good for Maine or for the country,” McDonald wrote in the Washington Post. “He exhibits a pattern of dishonest behavior that is impossible to ignore.” She added that despite being exposed by scandals since last October, Platner assured voters there were no more skeletons, only for more to emerge, including serious accusations of physical mistreatment from former girlfriends.
Democratic Voters Stick with Platner
Despite the controversies, signs indicate that most Democratic voters are supporting Platner. At a campaign event on Sunday, a supporter presented him with a hand-drawn card bearing the message “we’ve got your back.” Polls close in Maine at 8pm ET.
