Democratic leaders are continuing to back Maine Senate candidate Graham Platner despite revelations that he exchanged sexually explicit texts with women outside his marriage. The news emerged as Platner met with top Democrats in Washington DC on Tuesday, including Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee.
Schumer expressed confidence in Platner's campaign, stating, “We’re going to beat Susan Collins and take back the Senate.” Senator Bernie Sanders, an early endorser, also reaffirmed his support, saying, “Of course” when asked if he still backed Platner. Sanders urged focus on issues like healthcare and the cost of living.
The explicit texts were obtained by Platner's former campaign political director, Genevieve McDonald, from his wife, Amy Gertner, during opposition research. Gertner released a statement expressing hurt over the disclosure, saying she confided “deeply personal details” about her marriage to someone she considered a friend.
This latest controversy adds to previous scandals, including resurfaced Reddit posts from 2013-2021 where Platner used slurs, made racist comments, and insulted police. He also admitted to getting a Nazi-style Totenkopf tattoo while in the Marines, which he later covered up, attributing his past behaviour to PTSD.
Despite these issues, Platner remains a strong contender, having raised significant funds and earned endorsements from progressive figures. He faces Republican Senator Susan Collins in November, with Democrats needing to net four seats to regain Senate control.
