Graham Platner, the leading Democratic Senate candidate in Maine, is facing renewed scrutiny over past online comments that have resurfaced. The controversy centers on two key revelations: a 2019 Reddit post where Platner mocked a wounded U.S. soldier and a 2013 post where he appeared to endorse violence against political opponents.
Immediate Action & Core Facts
In a 2019 Reddit post, Platner referred to a U.S. soldier shot four times in combat as a "dumb motherf*****" who "didn’t deserve to live." The soldier, Pfc. Ted Daniels, was wounded in a Taliban ambush and later received a Purple Heart. Platner’s campaign has not responded to requests for comment. Separately, a 2013 Reddit post revealed Platner stating, "There are times in this world when, for the good of tolerance and humanity, you need to kill a motherf---er," in response to a discussion about Antifa violence.
Deeper Dive & Context
Background on Platner
Platner, a former Marine and oyster farmer, is running as a progressive Democrat in Maine’s Senate race. He has positioned himself as a working-class candidate with military experience, contrasting with his Republican opponent, Sen. Susan Collins. Polls show Platner leading in both the primary and general election.
Reactions to the Comments
Republican critics, including Sen. Susan Collins, have condemned Platner’s remarks, with Collins stating she believes Maine voters will reject his extremism. The National Republican Senate Committee has highlighted the posts in attacks on Platner’s candidacy. Meanwhile, some Democrats have defended Platner, with Sen. Bernie Sanders calling him a "strong progressive voice" for Maine.
Platner’s Online History
Platner’s Reddit history includes other controversial posts, such as one where he bragged about having a Nazi symbol tattoo and later becoming a communist. He has also referred to law enforcement as "bastards" and described rural white Americans as "racist" and "stupid." The Platner campaign has not addressed these posts directly.
Military Service and Political Stance
Platner has emphasized his military service in Iraq and Afghanistan, framing his candidacy as a rejection of the policies that led to those conflicts. He has criticized Collins for voting to authorize military action in Iraq and for supporting ongoing conflicts in the Middle East.
Campaign Strategy and Funding
The Senate Majority PAC has reserved over $33 million for the Maine Senate race, indicating its importance in the broader battle for Senate control. Platner’s campaign has focused on economic issues and healthcare, while opponents have sought to highlight his past statements as evidence of extremism.