Graham Platner Wins Maine Democratic Senate Primary Amid Controversies, Faces Susan Collins in November

US Marine veteran Graham Platner, a progressive candidate with no prior political experience, secured 75% of the vote in Maine’s Democratic Senate primary on June 5, 2026, according to official results. He will now challenge Republican Senator Susan Collins in the November general election, despite facing multiple scandals that have raised questions about his viability as a candidate.

What is the controversy surrounding Platner’s tattoo?

Platner, who served three tours in Iraq and one in Afghanistan, had a Totenkopf tattoo—a Nazi SS skull symbol—on his chest since 2007. He claimed he was unaware of its significance at the time, stating he viewed it as a “terrifying-looking skull and crossbones” while “heavily intoxicated” in Croatia. The National Guard prohibits tattoos deemed “extremist, racist, sexist, or otherwise indecent.”

Critics argued the tattoo’s symbolism, which was popularized in the “Are We the Baddies?” Mitchell and Webb comedy skit, could be misinterpreted. In October 2025, Platner covered the tattoo with a Celtic knot featuring a wolf-like design, which some linked to far-right and white supremacist imagery. “If I was ever under the impression it was associated with that ideology, I would not have taken photographs of myself,” Platner said, describing himself as an “anti-fascist.”

How have Platner’s past statements impacted his campaign?

Platner faced accusations of anti-Semitism after refusing AIPAC donations, a stance that contrasted with Collins, who reportedly received nearly 20% of her campaign funds from the pro-Israel lobby group. Additionally, old online posts surfaced in which Platner used homophobic slurs and suggested military sexual assault victims “act like an adult” and avoid “blacked out f*cked up” situations. He later apologized, attributing the comments to “PTSD struggles.”

Earlier this month, reports revealed Platner sent sexually explicit text messages to multiple women while married, further complicating his campaign. Republican strategist and former President Donald Trump labeled Platner a “thug” and “worse than any human being that has ever run for office,” though Trump’s approval ratings remain historically low due to economic and foreign policy concerns.

What are the implications for the November election?

Democrats have expressed doubts about Platner’s ability to unseat Collins, a seven-term senator with a strong record on issues like healthcare and defense. Collins, who is openly pro-Israel, has raised significant funds from AIPAC, while Platner’s progressive rhetoric and controversies have drawn both support from left-wing Democrats and skepticism from party leaders.

The race has become a focal point in Maine’s political landscape, with national attention on whether a candidate with such a contentious record can overcome institutional advantages held by an incumbent senator. As the campaign intensifies, both sides are likely to highlight Platner’s past actions and the broader implications for US politics.