Graham Platner's Controversial Tattoo and Its Impact on His Senate Campaign

Graham Platner, a Democratic candidate for the U.S. Senate in Maine, has faced significant backlash over a tattoo resembling a Nazi symbol that he got nearly 20 years ago. Platner, a Marine veteran and oyster farmer, stated that he received the skull and crossbones tattoo while drinking with fellow Marines in Croatia in 2007. He claimed he was unaware of its extremist associations until recently, when reporters and political insiders brought it to his attention. Platner expressed his intention to remove the tattoo, stating, “I absolutely would not have gone through life having this on my chest if I knew that — and to insinuate that I did is disgusting.”

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The tattoo controversy coincided with the resurfacing of Platner's past social media posts, which included comments downplaying sexual assault in the military and making racially insensitive remarks. Platner has acknowledged these posts, stating they were made during a difficult period in his life after returning from military service, during which he struggled with post-traumatic stress disorder and depression. He described his past comments as “indefensible” and expressed remorse for them, emphasizing that they do not reflect his current views.

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Platner's tattoo and social media history have drawn criticism from various quarters. Jonathan Greenblatt, head of the Anti-Defamation League, condemned any connection to Nazi ideology, stating that public officials should have no sympathy for such beliefs. Additionally, Genevieve McDonald, Platner's former political director, resigned from his campaign, asserting that he should have known better regarding the tattoo's implications. In contrast, Senator Bernie Sanders, a prominent supporter of Platner, defended him, suggesting that many people go through dark periods and that Platner has shown growth since then.

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In response to the backlash, Platner has reiterated his commitment to his campaign, stating, “I don’t look at this as a liability. I look at this as a life that I have lived, a journey that has been difficult.” He has also accused his political opponents of orchestrating the controversy to undermine his candidacy. His campaign has emphasized that the tattoo was never flagged during his military service, which included a thorough examination for hate symbols.

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Despite the controversies, Platner remains determined to continue his Senate campaign against Republican incumbent Susan Collins. He plans to hold town hall meetings and engage with voters to discuss his platform. The primary election is scheduled for June 2026, providing Platner time to address the fallout from these revelations and to solidify his support among constituents.

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There are conflicting accounts regarding Platner's awareness of the tattoo's connotations. While he maintains he was unaware until recently, some reports suggest he referred to the tattoo as “my Totenkopf,” a term associated with Nazi imagery. This discrepancy raises questions about the authenticity of his claims and the extent of his knowledge regarding the tattoo's implications.

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• “I absolutely would not have gone through life having this on my chest if I knew that — and to insinuate that I did is disgusting.” — Graham Platner, U.S. Senate Candidate

New York Times

• “If you’re running for office, seeking a potential appointment, or serving the public in any capacity, you should have no connection to or sympathy for Nazi ideology. Period,” — Jonathan Greenblatt, Anti-Defamation League

New York Times

• “He’s not the only one in America who has gone through a dark period.” — Bernie Sanders, U.S. Senator

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The unfolding situation surrounding Graham Platner's tattoo and past remarks will likely continue to shape his campaign as he seeks to navigate the complexities of public perception and political accountability.

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