Graham Platner, the Democratic nominee for US Senate in Maine, is facing fresh abuse allegations as he prepares to challenge Republican incumbent Susan Collins in November. The Marine veteran and oyster farmer won 72% of the primary vote on Tuesday, despite a series of scandals that have dogged his campaign.
New reports have emerged detailing accusations from former partners, who describe Platner as volatile and unfaithful. One ex-girlfriend, Lyndsey Fifield, a Republican operative, alleged in the New York Times that Platner twisted her arm behind her back during an argument and held her against her will over a decade ago. Platner has categorically denied these claims.
Additional controversies include sexually explicit messages exchanged with several women while married, a tattoo later recognised as a Nazi symbol, and old Reddit posts containing homophobic slurs and dismissive comments about military sexual assault. Platner has attributed his past behaviour to untreated PTSD and alcohol abuse following his military service, framing his candidacy as a story of personal redemption.
His wife, Amy Gertner, has publicly supported him, dismissing media coverage as 'gossip' and appearing alongside him at campaign events. Platner told supporters: 'Redemption is not just some simple or easy destination; it’s a journey. I’ve made mistakes in my life, mistakes I regret, that I live with, that I continue to learn from.'
The general election race against Susan Collins is considered a must-win for Democrats to take control of the Senate, where Republicans currently hold a 53-47 majority. Platner has criticised Collins for serving 'Donald Trump' and 'the Epstein class', vowing to defeat her in November.
