U.S. Senate candidate Graham Platner is under fire for old online comments appearing to endorse political violence, dismiss military rape, and criticize police and rural America. While the DNC chair called them 'offensive' but not 'disqualifying,' Platner apologized, citing PTSD and military humor, as his campaign faces internal and external backlash.
U.S. Senate candidate Graham Platner, vying for Republican Susan Collins' seat in Maine, is facing significant controversy over deleted Reddit posts made between 2013 and 2021. The posts, first reported by CNN, included apparent endorsements of political violence, dismissal of rape in the military, and criticism of police officers and rural America. Democratic National Committee Chair Ken Martin stated on CNN that while the posts were 'not right,' 'indefensible,' and 'offensive,' he did not consider them 'disqualifying' for office, expressing relief that Platner apologized. Platner issued a video apology, explaining the posts were made after leaving the Army in 2012, attributing them to 'crude humor,' 'dark feelings,' and 'offensive language' from his infantry service, and his struggles with post-traumatic stress disorder and depression at the time. He urged voters to judge him on who he is today. Following his apology, Platner shared additional old Reddit posts showing him encouraging veterans to seek help and criticizing homophobia and misogyny in the military. Platner, an oyster farmer and progressive candidate backed by Sen. Bernie Sanders, is making his first run for public office. The Collins campaign criticized Platner's posts, highlighting alleged disparagement of various groups and suggesting rifts within the Democratic Party. Maine Gov. Janet Mills, also a candidate for the Democratic nomination, did not comment. Despite the controversy, some Maine Democratic leaders continue to support Platner, emphasizing his 'authenticity.' However, Platner's political director, Genevieve L. McDonald, resigned, stating she could not stand behind the 'volume and nature' of his past comments, many made as an adult, which were unknown to her when she joined the campaign.
