Graham Platner’s candidacy for the Senate just hit rock bottom. Once boasting a promising lead in the polls, the Democrat from Maine has plunged into chaos, as key campaign staff abandon ship. Platner’s campaign is unraveling at an alarming rate, raising serious questions about his viability against the seasoned Republican incumbent, Senator Susan Collins.
In a shocking twist, both Platner’s political director and campaign manager have resigned within days of each other. Following the abrupt exit of former state Rep. Genevieve McDonald, who cited fundamental disagreements with Platner’s values, key ally Kevin Brown has now stepped away due to personal commitments. This shake-up highlights a severe lack of faith in Platner’s leadership, leaving his campaign manager position vacant and morale in tatters.
Adding fuel to the fire, a series of incendiary posts from Platner’s past on Reddit have surfaced, revealing deeply troubling views. Platner has openly identified as a communist and made derogatory remarks towards rural Americans, ridicule of service members, and even encouraged violence against political opponents. Such revelations are disqualifying for anyone seeking public office, especially a seat in the United States Senate.
Platner’s attempts at damage control, including a half-hearted apology, have done little to mitigate the fallout. A recently leaked video shows him displaying a “totenkopf” tattoo, a symbol linked to the notorious SS unit from Nazi Germany. While some within his party, including Senators like Bernie Sanders, have pledged their support, the departure of credible staff suggests that even many Democrats are losing faith.
Brown’s resignation is particularly telling. He publicly stated that Platner “deserves someone who is 100% in on his race,” indicating his realization that the campaign is in disarray. Meanwhile, Platner’s campaign is reportedly issuing nondisclosure agreements to staff, a move that suggests an attempt to control damage rather than address the underlying issues.
Polling indicates a stark reality: Governor Janet Mills has surged ahead of Platner, leading by five points as she formally enters the race. With only 36% support among likely Democratic primary voters, Platner’s once-promising campaign now appears doomed.
As more details emerge, Platner’s future looks increasingly precarious. His inability to keep a coherent team together, compounded by the disturbing revelations from his past, positions him as a weak challenger to Senator Collins. The Republican standard is set high, and Platner seems ill-equipped to rise to the occasion.
