Democrat Rep. Auchincloss Opposes Platner Over Nazi Tattoo

Rep. Jake Auchincloss (D-MA) has publicly opposed Graham Platner, the presumptive Democratic nominee for Maine's Senate seat, citing Platner's past association with a Nazi-linked tattoo as 'personally disqualifying.' In a CNN interview, Auchincloss, who is Jewish, stated that Platner's tattoo—originally resembling a Nazi SS 'Totenkopf' symbol—and his subsequent comments about it were reasons for voters to reconsider supporting him. Platner, a former Army and Marine Corps veteran, has claimed he was unaware of the tattoo's meaning when he received it in 2007 while stationed in Croatia. He later covered it up amid public backlash. Auchincloss's remarks have sparked internal Democratic Party criticism, with some accusing him of indirectly supporting incumbent Sen. Susan Collins (R-ME). Auchincloss denied these claims, stating he remains committed to Democratic efforts to retake the Senate. Platner, meanwhile, has framed his campaign as a fight against political and economic elites, aligning with Sen. Bernie Sanders (D-VT) in criticizing Collins' record. Polls show Platner leading Collins by 7 points, though 11% of voters remain undecided. The controversy has highlighted divisions within the Democratic Party over candidate vetting and the balance between progressive ideals and electability.