THE HALFAX HEIMDALL AUGUR

Now 57° Thu 73° Fri 72° byRAY LEWIS | The National News Desk HUNT VALLEY, Md. (TNND) —Graham Platner, the embattled Democrat vying for Maine’s U.S. Senate seat, is dismissing the potential for more scandals ahead of November’s general election. The political newcomer, who secured his party’s nomination with a Tuesday primary win, said in an interview with MS Now the next morning that his campaign will survive any future controversies. Platner has acknowledged reports of insulting social media posts, apologized for sporting a tattoo with Nazi associations and all but confirmed unfaithful behavior during his relationships. “I just wanna make this clear: There’s nothing out there that’s actually concerning,” Platner said Wednesday. “People will make everything seem very concerning because that’s what people do in politics.” Top Senate Democrats have worried about Platner’s viability against incumbent RepublicanSusan Collins, who has fended off challenges for nearly 30 years. Hemetwith his potential colleagues in Washington last week, addressing concerns of Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, Senator Kirsten Gillibrand and other powerful Democrats. The established members of the …

Now 57° Thu 73° Fri 72° byRAY LEWIS | The National News Desk HUNT VALLEY, Md. (TNND) —Graham Platner, the embattled Democrat vying for Maine’s U.S. Senate seat, is dismissing the potential for more scandals ahead of November’s general election. The political newcomer, who secured his party’s nomination with a Tuesday primary win, said in an interview with MS Now the next morning that his campaign will survive any future controversies. Platner has acknowledged reports of insulting social media posts, apologized for sporting a tattoo with Nazi associations and all but confirmed unfaithful behavior during his relationships. “I just wanna make this clear: There’s nothing out there that’s actually concerning,” Platner said Wednesday. “People will make everything seem very concerning because that’s what people do in politics.” Top Senate Democrats have worried about Platner’s viability against incumbent RepublicanSusan Collins, who has fended off challenges for nearly 30 years. Hemetwith his potential colleagues in Washington last week, addressing concerns of Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, Senator Kirsten Gillibrand and other powerful Democrats. The established members of the …

Now 72° Thu 91° Fri 75° byThe National News Desk WASHINGTON (TNND) —Democratic U.S. Senate candidateGraham Platnerwon his party’s primary in Maine, setting up a general election contest against Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, as questions about Platner’s past and personalconductcontinue to swirl. Robinson told The National News Desk Mills “made an attempt, with advertising, to showcase some of Graham Platner's comments about sexual assault and rape in the military,” but “ran some polling, found that the ads weren't working, and then dropped out.” (TNND) Steve Robinson, Editor-in-Chief of The Maine Wire, saidPlatner’sprimary win came in a race that was “essentially no contest,” arguing that former Maine Gov. Janet Mills never mounted a sustained challenge before dropping out. Robinson told The National News Desk Mills “made an attempt, with advertising, to showcase some of Graham Platner's comments about sexual assault and rape in the military,” but “ran some polling, found that the ads weren't working, and then dropped out.” Platner rose to the nomination despite controversies. Robinson referenced reporting by The Maine Wire alleging Platner’s involvement with the Sociali…

Now 57° Thu 73° Fri 72° byRAY LEWIS | The National News Desk HUNT VALLEY, Md. (TNND) —Graham Platner, the embattled Democrat vying for Maine’s U.S. Senate seat, is dismissing the potential for more scandals ahead of November’s general election. The political newcomer, who secured his party’s nomination with a Tuesday primary win, said in an interview with MS Now the next morning that his campaign will survive any future controversies. Platner has acknowledged reports of insulting social media posts, apologized for sporting a tattoo with Nazi associations and all but confirmed unfaithful behavior during his relationships. “I just wanna make this clear: There’s nothing out there that’s actually concerning,” Platner said Wednesday. “People will make everything seem very concerning because that’s what people do in politics.” Top Senate Democrats have worried about Platner’s viability against incumbent RepublicanSusan Collins, who has fended off challenges for nearly 30 years. Hemetwith his potential colleagues in Washington last week, addressing concerns of Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, Senator Kirsten Gillibrand and other powerful Democrats. The established members of the …

Now 72° Thu 91° Fri 75° byThe National News Desk WASHINGTON (TNND) —Democratic U.S. Senate candidateGraham Platnerwon his party’s primary in Maine, setting up a general election contest against Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, as questions about Platner’s past and personalconductcontinue to swirl. Robinson told The National News Desk Mills “made an attempt, with advertising, to showcase some of Graham Platner's comments about sexual assault and rape in the military,” but “ran some polling, found that the ads weren't working, and then dropped out.” (TNND) Steve Robinson, Editor-in-Chief of The Maine Wire, saidPlatner’sprimary win came in a race that was “essentially no contest,” arguing that former Maine Gov. Janet Mills never mounted a sustained challenge before dropping out. Robinson told The National News Desk Mills “made an attempt, with advertising, to showcase some of Graham Platner's comments about sexual assault and rape in the military,” but “ran some polling, found that the ads weren't working, and then dropped out.” Platner rose to the nomination despite controversies. Robinson referenced reporting by The Maine Wire alleging Platner’s involvement with the Sociali…

Graham Platner isn't going anywhere in Maine Senate race after latest controversy Graham Platner is denying accusations of being physically rough with former girlfriends saying that report in The New York Times and other controversies are a sign his campaign is gaining momentum.

Now 95° Thu 93° Fri 92° byKRISTINE FRAZAO | The National News Desk WASHINGTON (TNND) —Democratic NomineeGraham Platner’smission in the months ahead will be convincing voters that the contest for U.S. Senate should not be about his past, but about Maine’sfuture. For weeks, he’s been on defense about a string of scandals, including misogynistic online posts, a Nazi tattoo he’s since had covered, sexual text messages he sent to other women in the early days of his marriage to his wife, and disturbing reports from previous women he dated, including an allegation of violent behavior. (TNND) “This is not about me at all," Platner said after his victory. " This is a movement about us.” For weeks, he’s been on defense about a string of scandals, including misogynistic online posts, a Nazi tattoo he’s since had covered, sexual text messages he sent to other women in the early days of his marriage to his wife, and disturbing reports from previous women he dated, includingan allegationof violent behavior. In the Oval Office on Wednesday, President Donald Trump spoke about Platner. "He’s a thug and they’re trying to make excuses for him," he said. Some of his toughest critics, …

Now 57° Thu 73° Fri 72° byRAY LEWIS | The National News Desk HUNT VALLEY, Md. (TNND) —Graham Platner, the embattled Democrat vying for Maine’s U.S. Senate seat, is dismissing the potential for more scandals ahead of November’s general election. The political newcomer, who secured his party’s nomination with a Tuesday primary win, said in an interview with MS Now the next morning that his campaign will survive any future controversies. Platner has acknowledged reports of insulting social media posts, apologized for sporting a tattoo with Nazi associations and all but confirmed unfaithful behavior during his relationships. “I just wanna make this clear: There’s nothing out there that’s actually concerning,” Platner said Wednesday. “People will make everything seem very concerning because that’s what people do in politics.” Top Senate Democrats have worried about Platner’s viability against incumbent RepublicanSusan Collins, who has fended off challenges for nearly 30 years. Hemetwith his potential colleagues in Washington last week, addressing concerns of Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, Senator Kirsten Gillibrand and other powerful Democrats. The established members of the …

Graham Platner Finally Drops Out After Campaign Filled With Red Flags Most Recent Post Maine’s embattled Democratic Senate nominee Graham Platner dropped out of the race on Wednesday after a former partner accused him of sexually assaulting her in 2021. “We believe for the movement to continue, it can’t be me and for that reason, we are suspending campaign operations,” Platner said in a video posted to social media. My name might be on the ballot right now, but that ballot line belongs to the people of Maine. pic.twitter.com/RKVyLU76tm — Graham Platner for Senate (@grahamformaine) July 9, 2026 Jenny Racicot, a 41-year-old Maine resident who dated Platner on and off for two years, told Politico on Monday that the former Marine drunkenly entered her home uninvited five years ago and forced himself on her even as she asked him to stop. Platner initially denied Racicot’s allegations, and he maintained his innocence in his announcement. He called the accusations “all false” and blamed a “corporate media system and the political establishment [that] got to act as judge, jury, and executioner.” Maine’s Democratic Party now has until July 27 to pick a candidate to appear on the ballot in …

Now 95° Thu 93° Fri 92° byKRISTINE FRAZAO | The National News Desk WASHINGTON (TNND) —Democratic NomineeGraham Platner’smission in the months ahead will be convincing voters that the contest for U.S. Senate should not be about his past, but about Maine’sfuture. For weeks, he’s been on defense about a string of scandals, including misogynistic online posts, a Nazi tattoo he’s since had covered, sexual text messages he sent to other women in the early days of his marriage to his wife, and disturbing reports from previous women he dated, including an allegation of violent behavior. (TNND) “This is not about me at all," Platner said after his victory. " This is a movement about us.” For weeks, he’s been on defense about a string of scandals, including misogynistic online posts, a Nazi tattoo he’s since had covered, sexual text messages he sent to other women in the early days of his marriage to his wife, and disturbing reports from previous women he dated, includingan allegationof violent behavior. In the Oval Office on Wednesday, President Donald Trump spoke about Platner. "He’s a thug and they’re trying to make excuses for him," he said. Some of his toughest critics, …

Now 57° Thu 73° Fri 72° byRAY LEWIS | The National News Desk HUNT VALLEY, Md. (TNND) —Graham Platner, the embattled Democrat vying for Maine’s U.S. Senate seat, is dismissing the potential for more scandals ahead of November’s general election. The political newcomer, who secured his party’s nomination with a Tuesday primary win, said in an interview with MS Now the next morning that his campaign will survive any future controversies. Platner has acknowledged reports of insulting social media posts, apologized for sporting a tattoo with Nazi associations and all but confirmed unfaithful behavior during his relationships. “I just wanna make this clear: There’s nothing out there that’s actually concerning,” Platner said Wednesday. “People will make everything seem very concerning because that’s what people do in politics.” Top Senate Democrats have worried about Platner’s viability against incumbent RepublicanSusan Collins, who has fended off challenges for nearly 30 years. Hemetwith his potential colleagues in Washington last week, addressing concerns of Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, Senator Kirsten Gillibrand and other powerful Democrats. The established members of the …

Now 57° Thu 73° Fri 72° byRAY LEWIS | The National News Desk HUNT VALLEY, Md. (TNND) —Graham Platner, the embattled Democrat vying for Maine’s U.S. Senate seat, is dismissing the potential for more scandals ahead of November’s general election. The political newcomer, who secured his party’s nomination with a Tuesday primary win, said in an interview with MS Now the next morning that his campaign will survive any future controversies. Platner has acknowledged reports of insulting social media posts, apologized for sporting a tattoo with Nazi associations and all but confirmed unfaithful behavior during his relationships. “I just wanna make this clear: There’s nothing out there that’s actually concerning,” Platner said Wednesday. “People will make everything seem very concerning because that’s what people do in politics.” Top Senate Democrats have worried about Platner’s viability against incumbent RepublicanSusan Collins, who has fended off challenges for nearly 30 years. Hemetwith his potential colleagues in Washington last week, addressing concerns of Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, Senator Kirsten Gillibrand and other powerful Democrats. The established members of the …

Now 95° Thu 93° Fri 92° byKRISTINE FRAZAO | The National News Desk WASHINGTON (TNND) —Democratic NomineeGraham Platner’smission in the months ahead will be convincing voters that the contest for U.S. Senate should not be about his past, but about Maine’sfuture. For weeks, he’s been on defense about a string of scandals, including misogynistic online posts, a Nazi tattoo he’s since had covered, sexual text messages he sent to other women in the early days of his marriage to his wife, and disturbing reports from previous women he dated, including an allegation of violent behavior. (TNND) “This is not about me at all," Platner said after his victory. " This is a movement about us.” For weeks, he’s been on defense about a string of scandals, including misogynistic online posts, a Nazi tattoo he’s since had covered, sexual text messages he sent to other women in the early days of his marriage to his wife, and disturbing reports from previous women he dated, includingan allegationof violent behavior. In the Oval Office on Wednesday, President Donald Trump spoke about Platner. "He’s a thug and they’re trying to make excuses for him," he said. Some of his toughest critics, …

Now 57° Thu 73° Fri 72° byRAY LEWIS | The National News Desk HUNT VALLEY, Md. (TNND) —Graham Platner, the embattled Democrat vying for Maine’s U.S. Senate seat, is dismissing the potential for more scandals ahead of November’s general election. The political newcomer, who secured his party’s nomination with a Tuesday primary win, said in an interview with MS Now the next morning that his campaign will survive any future controversies. Platner has acknowledged reports of insulting social media posts, apologized for sporting a tattoo with Nazi associations and all but confirmed unfaithful behavior during his relationships. “I just wanna make this clear: There’s nothing out there that’s actually concerning,” Platner said Wednesday. “People will make everything seem very concerning because that’s what people do in politics.” Top Senate Democrats have worried about Platner’s viability against incumbent RepublicanSusan Collins, who has fended off challenges for nearly 30 years. Hemetwith his potential colleagues in Washington last week, addressing concerns of Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, Senator Kirsten Gillibrand and other powerful Democrats. The established members of the …

Now 95° Thu 93° Fri 92° byKRISTINE FRAZAO | The National News Desk WASHINGTON (TNND) —Democratic NomineeGraham Platner’smission in the months ahead will be convincing voters that the contest for U.S. Senate should not be about his past, but about Maine’sfuture. For weeks, he’s been on defense about a string of scandals, including misogynistic online posts, a Nazi tattoo he’s since had covered, sexual text messages he sent to other women in the early days of his marriage to his wife, and disturbing reports from previous women he dated, including an allegation of violent behavior. (TNND) “This is not about me at all," Platner said after his victory. " This is a movement about us.” For weeks, he’s been on defense about a string of scandals, including misogynistic online posts, a Nazi tattoo he’s since had covered, sexual text messages he sent to other women in the early days of his marriage to his wife, and disturbing reports from previous women he dated, includingan allegationof violent behavior. In the Oval Office on Wednesday, President Donald Trump spoke about Platner. "He’s a thug and they’re trying to make excuses for him," he said. Some of his toughest critics, …

Now 57° Thu 73° Fri 72° byRAY LEWIS | The National News Desk HUNT VALLEY, Md. (TNND) —Graham Platner, the embattled Democrat vying for Maine’s U.S. Senate seat, is dismissing the potential for more scandals ahead of November’s general election. The political newcomer, who secured his party’s nomination with a Tuesday primary win, said in an interview with MS Now the next morning that his campaign will survive any future controversies. Platner has acknowledged reports of insulting social media posts, apologized for sporting a tattoo with Nazi associations and all but confirmed unfaithful behavior during his relationships. “I just wanna make this clear: There’s nothing out there that’s actually concerning,” Platner said Wednesday. “People will make everything seem very concerning because that’s what people do in politics.” Top Senate Democrats have worried about Platner’s viability against incumbent RepublicanSusan Collins, who has fended off challenges for nearly 30 years. Hemetwith his potential colleagues in Washington last week, addressing concerns of Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, Senator Kirsten Gillibrand and other powerful Democrats. The established members of the …

Graham Platner says he is reflecting on 'best path forward' as pressure ... Graham Platner, Democratic US Senate candidate for Maine, during a primary election night event in Blue Hill, Maine, on June 9. Graeme Sloan/Bloomberg/Getty Images Senate election US elections Congressional news Crime See all topics Facebook Tweet Email Link Threads Link Copied! Follow Democratic support for Graham Platner’s campaign collapsed Monday evening, with calls for him to exit the Maine Senate race mounting by the minute and Platner saying he was “taking the time to reflect on the best path forward” after a woman accused him of rape — an allegation he denies. Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer and the head of the party’s Senate campaign arm vowed not to spend money trying to beat the five-term Republican incumbent, Sen. Susan Collins, unless Platner withdraws and is replaced by another Democratic nominee. “The allegations reported today are incredibly disturbing – violence, abuse and sexual assault are absolutely unacceptable,” Schumer and Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, who chairs the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee, said in a statement. “Graham Platner needs to immediately withdraw as the …

Maine Senate candidate Graham Platner rejects new allegations of abusive behavior <p>Platner says claims in New York Times article of physical misconduct and offensive remarks ‘politically motivated’</p><p>Graham Platner, a Democratic candidate for the US Senate, has rejected an explosive new report about his treatment of women, insisting that allegations of abusive behavior are “politically motivated”.</p><p>Platner, a progressive running for election in Maine, was responding to a <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2026/06/04/us/politics/platner-maine-senate-girlfriends-relationships.html">New York Times article</a> published on Thursday that included an interview with a Republican operative who accused him of womanizing, physical misconduct and making troubling comments about rape.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/jun/04/graham-platner-maine-new-york-times-report">Continue reading...</a>

Now 72° Thu 91° Fri 75° byThe National News Desk WASHINGTON (TNND) —Democratic U.S. Senate candidateGraham Platnerwon his party’s primary in Maine, setting up a general election contest against Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, as questions about Platner’s past and personalconductcontinue to swirl. Robinson told The National News Desk Mills “made an attempt, with advertising, to showcase some of Graham Platner's comments about sexual assault and rape in the military,” but “ran some polling, found that the ads weren't working, and then dropped out.” (TNND) Steve Robinson, Editor-in-Chief of The Maine Wire, saidPlatner’sprimary win came in a race that was “essentially no contest,” arguing that former Maine Gov. Janet Mills never mounted a sustained challenge before dropping out. Robinson told The National News Desk Mills “made an attempt, with advertising, to showcase some of Graham Platner's comments about sexual assault and rape in the military,” but “ran some polling, found that the ads weren't working, and then dropped out.” Platner rose to the nomination despite controversies. Robinson referenced reporting by The Maine Wire alleging Platner’s involvement with the Sociali…

Now 90° Wed 97° Thu 98° byMATT GALKA | The National News Desk WASHINGTON (TNND) —New allegations against Maine Democratic Senate candidate Graham Platner are roiling the race and raising questions about whether Democrats will need to replace their nominee in a contest seen as pivotal to control of the U.S. Senate. Platner is facing another serious scandal one month after securing the Democratic nomination for Senate in Maine. (TNND) Platner is facing another serious scandal one month after securing the Democratic nomination for Senate in Maine. Jenny Racicot alleges Platner raped her in 2021. When asked by CNN's Jake Tapper, “Did Graham Platner rape you?” Racicot replied, “By definition, yes. Absolutely.” Platner denied the allegation that he sexually assaulted a woman he previously dated, calling it false. “Any accusation of nonconsensual behavior is categorically false,” Platner said in a video statement. Controversy has surrounded Platner, a Maine military veteran and oyster farmer, as his campaign grew in popularity. He previously apologized for a Nazi tattoo that he later had covered up, along with inflammatory social media posts about women and police years befor…

Now 94° Wed 100° Thu 101° byMATT GALKA | The National News Desk WASHINGTON (TNND) —New allegations against Maine Democratic Senate candidate Graham Platner are roiling the race and raising questions about whether Democrats will need to replace their nominee in a contest seen as pivotal to control of the U.S. Senate. Platner is facing another serious scandal one month after securing the Democratic nomination for Senate in Maine. (TNND) Platner is facing another serious scandal one month after securing the Democratic nomination for Senate in Maine. Jenny Racicot alleges Platner raped her in 2021. When asked by CNN's Jake Tapper, “Did Graham Platner rape you?” Racicot replied, “By definition, yes. Absolutely.” Platner denied the allegation that he sexually assaulted a woman he previously dated, calling it false. “Any accusation of nonconsensual behavior is categorically false,” Platner said in a video statement. Controversy has surrounded Platner, a Maine military veteran and oyster farmer, as his campaign grew in popularity. He previously apologized for a Nazi tattoo that he later had covered up, along with inflammatory social media posts about women and police years bef…

Cory Booker has ‘concerns’ with Graham Platner’s Senate bid after leaked texts <p>US senator says Platner, whose wife says he sent sexually explicit messages to other women, has ‘questions to answer’</p><p>A high-profile <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/democrats">Democrat</a> has expressed concerns with party candidate Graham Platner’s Maine US Senate campaign amid revelations that Platner <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/may/30/graham-platner-explicit-texts-senate-maine">reportedly sent</a> a number of sexually explicit messages to other women while married.</p><p>“Yes, I have concerns,” <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/cory-booker">Cory Booker</a>, the US senator from New Jersey, said Sunday on <a href="https://www.mediaite.com/media/news/i-have-concerns-cory-booker-waffles-on-graham-platner-after-explosive-new-revelations/">ABC’s This Week</a><em> </em>when host Jonathan Karl when asked about the Platner revelations. <strong>“</strong>That guy has questions to answer – and that’s what campaigns are for.”</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/may/31/cory-booker-graham-platner-senate-campaign">Continue reading...</a>

Now 72° Thu 91° Fri 75° byThe National News Desk WASHINGTON (TNND) —Democratic U.S. Senate candidateGraham Platnerwon his party’s primary in Maine, setting up a general election contest against Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, as questions about Platner’s past and personalconductcontinue to swirl. Robinson told The National News Desk Mills “made an attempt, with advertising, to showcase some of Graham Platner's comments about sexual assault and rape in the military,” but “ran some polling, found that the ads weren't working, and then dropped out.” (TNND) Steve Robinson, Editor-in-Chief of The Maine Wire, saidPlatner’sprimary win came in a race that was “essentially no contest,” arguing that former Maine Gov. Janet Mills never mounted a sustained challenge before dropping out. Robinson told The National News Desk Mills “made an attempt, with advertising, to showcase some of Graham Platner's comments about sexual assault and rape in the military,” but “ran some polling, found that the ads weren't working, and then dropped out.” Platner rose to the nomination despite controversies. Robinson referenced reporting by The Maine Wire alleging Platner’s involvement with the Sociali…

NPR Democratic strategist says transparency is Platner's 'only path forward' NPR | By Steve Inskeep Published July 7, 2026 at 3:44 AM PDT Facebook Twitter Bluesky LinkedIn Email Listen • 4:42 Laura Brett / Getty Images Democratic U.S. Senate candidate Graham Platner speaks to voters during a town hall at Elks Lodge #188 in Portland, Maine, on June 7. Updated July 7, 2026 at 4:16 PM PDT Maine's U.S. Senate candidate Graham Platner is facing calls to end his campaign after a former girlfriend accused him of sexual assault. The alleged incident, which the woman said happened nearly five years ago, was first reported by Politico . NPR has not independently verified the claims. Platner has denied the allegations. Speaking with Morning Edition on Tuesday, Democratic strategist Joel Payne said Platner should be "as transparent and as clear as possible" as he weighs whether to remain in the race. Payne said it's unclear whether transparency would be enough to keep Platner in the race but called it "the only path forward." He also said one key question remains unanswered: how voters in Maine respond. While national and state Democrats have urged Platner to step aside, P…

Now 72° Thu 91° Fri 75° byThe National News Desk WASHINGTON (TNND) —Democratic U.S. Senate candidateGraham Platnerwon his party’s primary in Maine, setting up a general election contest against Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, as questions about Platner’s past and personalconductcontinue to swirl. Robinson told The National News Desk Mills “made an attempt, with advertising, to showcase some of Graham Platner's comments about sexual assault and rape in the military,” but “ran some polling, found that the ads weren't working, and then dropped out.” (TNND) Steve Robinson, Editor-in-Chief of The Maine Wire, saidPlatner’sprimary win came in a race that was “essentially no contest,” arguing that former Maine Gov. Janet Mills never mounted a sustained challenge before dropping out. Robinson told The National News Desk Mills “made an attempt, with advertising, to showcase some of Graham Platner's comments about sexual assault and rape in the military,” but “ran some polling, found that the ads weren't working, and then dropped out.” Platner rose to the nomination despite controversies. Robinson referenced reporting by The Maine Wire alleging Platner’s involvement with the Sociali…

Despite new allegations, Maine’s Platner predicts voters will send him to Senate <p>Democrat denies reports of physical intimidation towards women, saying his past has been ‘weaponized’</p><p>The Democratic US senate candidate <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/jun/04/graham-platner-maine-new-york-times-report">Graham Platner</a> on Friday predicted that <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/maine">Maine</a>’s voters would support him four days later in his party primary despite a string of controversies – including recent negative headlines about his treatment of women that he said had been “weaponized”.</p><p>In a 25-minute speech before supporters in Bar Harbor, the oyster farmer and US marine combat veteran addressed the controversies around his personal conduct, which escalated on Thursday with a New York Times report in which three former romantic partners described disturbing behavior, including being physically intimidated by him.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/jun/06/graham-platner-main-senate-physical-intimidation-allegations">Continue reading...</a>

Graham Platner’s Maine Senate bid wobbly with news of sexting infidelity <p>Democratic candidate already cites PTSD for racist, sexist, homophobic online posts and has covered up Nazi tattoo</p><ul><li><p><a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/live/2026/jun/02/midterm-primary-election-results-california-iowa-montana-new-jersey-south-dakota-new-mexico-latest-updates">Midterm primaries – live results and updates</a></p></li></ul><p>Graham Platner met on Tuesday with Democratic leaders in Washington DC as the embattled Maine Senate candidate contends with yet another revelation threatening his campaign, which is at the center of his party’s hopes of regaining control of Congress.</p><p>Platner did not respond to questions from reporters and quickly entered a waiting car as he exited the meeting, which stretched for more than an hour and a half at the headquarters of the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee (DSCC). A spokesperson for the DSCC did not respond to a request for comment.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/jun/02/graham-platner-maine-senate-sexting">Continue reading...</a>

Now 57° Thu 73° Fri 72° byRAY LEWIS | The National News Desk HUNT VALLEY, Md. (TNND) —Graham Platner, the embattled Democrat vying for Maine’s U.S. Senate seat, is dismissing the potential for more scandals ahead of November’s general election. The political newcomer, who secured his party’s nomination with a Tuesday primary win, said in an interview with MS Now the next morning that his campaign will survive any future controversies. Platner has acknowledged reports of insulting social media posts, apologized for sporting a tattoo with Nazi associations and all but confirmed unfaithful behavior during his relationships. “I just wanna make this clear: There’s nothing out there that’s actually concerning,” Platner said Wednesday. “People will make everything seem very concerning because that’s what people do in politics.” Top Senate Democrats have worried about Platner’s viability against incumbent RepublicanSusan Collins, who has fended off challenges for nearly 30 years. Hemetwith his potential colleagues in Washington last week, addressing concerns of Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, Senator Kirsten Gillibrand and other powerful Democrats. The established members of the …

'What else are we going to do?' Maine Democrats divided over Platner ... Some voters say there's been too much focus on Platner's personal life. Graham Platner was supposed to be Democrats' best shot at toppling longtime Maine Republican Sen. Susan Collins -- and a key part of their path back to control of the Senate. But personal scandals have rocked the race. ABC News spoke with several voters in different parts of the state -- highlighting the division among voters in Maine about Platner and his candidacy. Bangor resident Nancy Jacobson said the latest allegations reported in The New York Times "shake" her, but she sees no other option, adding that she expects more things to come out later about Platner. "What else are we going to do with this stage in the game?" Jacobson said. "I feel like his political mission is sincere, and that's what I'm voting for." Over the past week, The New York Times published two separate reports, one with allegations Platner sent sexually explicit text messages to multiple women, which was first reported by the Wall Street Journal, and another with some former girlfriends alleging they found his behavior "intimidating and disturbing." Platner…

Democrats' Maine senate candidate Graham Platner accused of sexual assault Topic: US Elections Tue 7 Jul 2026 at 9:29am Tue 7 Jul 2026 at 9:29am Tue 7 Jul 2026 at 9:29am Graham Platner speaks to an overflow crowd outside a campaign event earlier this month. ( AP Photo: Robert F Bukaty ) In short: Graham Platner, the Democrat vying to unseat Republican senator Susan Collins in Maine, has been accused of sexual assault by an ex-partner, sparking a flight of endorsements away from the controversial candidate. Mr Platner denies the allegation, but has cancelled a handful of planned town hall events and says he is considering the next steps for his campaign. What's next? Mr Platner could be replaced as the Democrats' candidate if he withdraws by July 13, with any replacement candidate needing to be named by July 27. A woman who previously dated Maine Democratic Senate candidate Graham Platner said he drunkenly forced her to have sex after she told him to stop, according to a report published by US news site Politico on Monday, leading prominent supporters to pull their endorsements and throwing a must-win race for the party into turmoil. Mr Platner denied the allegation but has cancelle…

Now 72° Thu 91° Fri 75° byThe National News Desk WASHINGTON (TNND) —Democratic U.S. Senate candidateGraham Platnerwon his party’s primary in Maine, setting up a general election contest against Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, as questions about Platner’s past and personalconductcontinue to swirl. Robinson told The National News Desk Mills “made an attempt, with advertising, to showcase some of Graham Platner's comments about sexual assault and rape in the military,” but “ran some polling, found that the ads weren't working, and then dropped out.” (TNND) Steve Robinson, Editor-in-Chief of The Maine Wire, saidPlatner’sprimary win came in a race that was “essentially no contest,” arguing that former Maine Gov. Janet Mills never mounted a sustained challenge before dropping out. Robinson told The National News Desk Mills “made an attempt, with advertising, to showcase some of Graham Platner's comments about sexual assault and rape in the military,” but “ran some polling, found that the ads weren't working, and then dropped out.” Platner rose to the nomination despite controversies. Robinson referenced reporting by The Maine Wire alleging Platner’s involvement with the Sociali…

Now 72° Thu 91° Fri 75° byThe National News Desk WASHINGTON (TNND) —Democratic U.S. Senate candidateGraham Platnerwon his party’s primary in Maine, setting up a general election contest against Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, as questions about Platner’s past and personalconductcontinue to swirl. Robinson told The National News Desk Mills “made an attempt, with advertising, to showcase some of Graham Platner's comments about sexual assault and rape in the military,” but “ran some polling, found that the ads weren't working, and then dropped out.” (TNND) Steve Robinson, Editor-in-Chief of The Maine Wire, saidPlatner’sprimary win came in a race that was “essentially no contest,” arguing that former Maine Gov. Janet Mills never mounted a sustained challenge before dropping out. Robinson told The National News Desk Mills “made an attempt, with advertising, to showcase some of Graham Platner's comments about sexual assault and rape in the military,” but “ran some polling, found that the ads weren't working, and then dropped out.” Platner rose to the nomination despite controversies. Robinson referenced reporting by The Maine Wire alleging Platner’s involvement with the Sociali…

Facebook Twitter WhatsApp SMS Email Graham Platner, Democratic candidate for U.S. Senate, acknowledges applause at a campaign event Sunday, June 7, 2026, in Portland, Maine. Robert F. Bukaty - FR172387 AP Facebook Twitter WhatsApp SMS Email Print Copy article link Save With Graham Platner's campaign teetering from an allegation of sexual assault , there's no shortage of people arguing that the 41-year-old Maine oysterman and progressive political neophyte was always too risky for a key Senate race. However, it's likely more candidates will follow his path in the future. That's because Platner's starburst candidacy followed an increasingly familiar arc that's shown no signs of abating in American politics — the outsider who defies the warnings of party veterans and captures the hearts of primary voters, even as liabilities pile up and complicate the odds of winning the general election. With candidates having so many ways to raise money and draw attention — and the public having so little faith in longstanding institutions — the country remains primed for new waves of anti-establishment campaigns, no matter how erratic. “I think there’s going to be a lot more of this," said Seth Mas…

close Video Maine voters speak out on Graham Platner’s controversies Democratic Senate candidate Graham Platner is embroiled in controversy over his past behavior, including allegations of abuse from ex-girlfriends and a controversial tattoo he previously bore. Fox News correspondent Alexis McAdams details the divided opinion among Maine voters as Platner prepares for Tuesday's primary against GOP incumbent Sen. Susan Collins. Democratic Congressman Ro Khanna's support for Platner is also highlighted. NEW You can now listen to Fox News articles! Support for embattled Maine Senate candidate Graham Platner is cratering among Democrats, with one of his most prominent supporters calling on him to exit the race following a harrowing rape allegation. Rep. Ro Khanna, D-Calif., rescinded his endorsement and called on Platner to suspend his campaign following a bombshell Politico report detailing an accusation of sexual assault by Maine resident Jenny Racicot, 41, who previously dated the scandal-plagued candidate. Platner immediately denied Racicot's account — which alleges that he barged into her home in 2021 and forced her to have unprotected sex — but has said his campaign is determinin…

Now 72° Thu 91° Fri 75° byThe National News Desk WASHINGTON (TNND) —Democratic U.S. Senate candidateGraham Platnerwon his party’s primary in Maine, setting up a general election contest against Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, as questions about Platner’s past and personalconductcontinue to swirl. Robinson told The National News Desk Mills “made an attempt, with advertising, to showcase some of Graham Platner's comments about sexual assault and rape in the military,” but “ran some polling, found that the ads weren't working, and then dropped out.” (TNND) Steve Robinson, Editor-in-Chief of The Maine Wire, saidPlatner’sprimary win came in a race that was “essentially no contest,” arguing that former Maine Gov. Janet Mills never mounted a sustained challenge before dropping out. Robinson told The National News Desk Mills “made an attempt, with advertising, to showcase some of Graham Platner's comments about sexual assault and rape in the military,” but “ran some polling, found that the ads weren't working, and then dropped out.” Platner rose to the nomination despite controversies. Robinson referenced reporting by The Maine Wire alleging Platner’s involvement with the Sociali…

Will Graham Platner's Scandals Derail Democrats' Hopes in Maine? Key takeaways − Former Marine Graham Platner emerged as Democrats' top recruit to challenge Sen. Susan Collins in Maine. Multiple scandals: abuse allegations, a sexual assault accusation, explicit sexting reports, offensive online posts, and a tattoo resembling a Nazi symbol. Platner denies nonconsensual wrongdoing, apologized for past comments, and says he is reflecting on the campaign's future. Top Democrats including Schumer and Gillibrand urged immediate withdrawal and the DSCC will not invest if he stays on the ballot. Race remains unsettled: Platner leads primary and keeps progressive support, yet allegations could sway independent and moderate women voters in general election. Graham Platner was supposed to be one of the Democrats' brightest Senate recruits of the 2026 cycle. The Marine veteran and oyster farmer quickly emerged as a rising political star in Maine, fueling hopes that the party could unseat Republican Sen. Susan Collins and help reclaim control of the Senate. But as Platner prepares to become his party's nominee, a growing list of controversies has cast uncertainty over what was once viewed as t…

Now 57° Thu 73° Fri 72° byRAY LEWIS | The National News Desk HUNT VALLEY, Md. (TNND) —Graham Platner, the embattled Democrat vying for Maine’s U.S. Senate seat, is dismissing the potential for more scandals ahead of November’s general election. The political newcomer, who secured his party’s nomination with a Tuesday primary win, said in an interview with MS Now the next morning that his campaign will survive any future controversies. Platner has acknowledged reports of insulting social media posts, apologized for sporting a tattoo with Nazi associations and all but confirmed unfaithful behavior during his relationships. “I just wanna make this clear: There’s nothing out there that’s actually concerning,” Platner said Wednesday. “People will make everything seem very concerning because that’s what people do in politics.” Top Senate Democrats have worried about Platner’s viability against incumbent RepublicanSusan Collins, who has fended off challenges for nearly 30 years. Hemetwith his potential colleagues in Washington last week, addressing concerns of Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, Senator Kirsten Gillibrand and other powerful Democrats. The established members of the …

Maine Democrats Give Graham Platner a Pass for 'Mistakes' ‘I’ll Probably Grit My Teeth and Vote for Him’: Maine Democrats Give Graham Platner a Pass on His ‘Mistakes’ Sean James Jun 2nd, 2026, 9:48 am Share X Facebook Copy Link (Photo Credit: CBS and Robert F. Bukaty) Despite a pile-up of controversies, several Maine voters told CBS they will still be voting for Senate candidate Graham Platner (D) in the state’s primary election. Correspondent Caitlin Huey-Burns interviewed several voters during a segment that ran on CBS Mornings on Tuesday. “I’ll probably grit my teeth and vote for him, because I’m a Democrat,” a man named David Perez told her. Another voter named Maritza Frost said she was able to “separate what somebody is doing in their personal life and the mistakes —  or whatever — that they’ve done from how they run politically.” And another woman said she doesn’t “think any differently” about Platner after news broke last weekend that he sexted with several women who were not his wife; Platner’s campaign confirmed the sexually explicit messages. Of the CBS interviewees, one man stood out from the pack, saying he didn’t plan on voting for Platner anyway. New: Many voters CB…

In Maine, Supporters of Graham Platner Continue to Back His Senate ... Advertisement SKIP ADVERTISEMENT Sara Golaski says she is horrified by President Trump’s second term, and that it is “very important” to her that Democrats win back the Senate in the midterm elections. But Ms. Golaski, a Democrat from Bristol, Maine, says she does not think she will vote for Graham Platner, the presumptive Democratic Senate nominee, and will sit out the November election. She said she was “disgusted” by inflammatory messages he once posted online about women and by reports about his treatment of past girlfriends. “I’m incredibly disheartened that we don’t have better options,” Ms. Golaski, 35, said. One of her chief concerns with the Republican Party was its positions on women, she said, adding that she would not support a “Democrat with a similar negative view of women.” With one day until the primary in Maine, Democrats and others are feeling a complex mix of emotions across a state that could decide control of the Senate in November, interviews with more than 30 people show. Many Democrats here say they’re unconcerned by reports about Mr. Platner’s personal history, dismissing them as distra…