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Democratic Senate Hopeful Platner Under Fire Amid Poll Lead

10/26/2025

Summary

Story summary

Graham Platner, a Democratic Senate candidate in Maine, faces criticism for past racist and anti-LGBTQ comments and a tattoo resembling a Nazi symbol, which he has since covered.
Despite this scrutiny, he leads in polls with 46% support against Gov. Janet Mills, who has 25%.
Platner's progressive platform includes Medicare for All and federal LGBTQ+ protections, with endorsements from supporters like Sen. Bernie Sanders.
Critics question whether his controversial history will affect his chances against incumbent Republican Sen. Susan Collins in the June 2026 primary.

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Story summary

Graham Platner, a Democratic Senate candidate in Maine, faces criticism for past racist and anti-LGBTQ comments and a tattoo resembling a Nazi symbol, which he has since covered.
Despite this scrutiny, he leads in polls with 46% support against Gov. Janet Mills, who has 25%.
Platner's progressive platform includes Medicare for All and federal LGBTQ+ protections, with endorsements from supporters like Sen. Bernie Sanders.
Critics question whether his controversial history will affect his chances against incumbent Republican Sen. Susan Collins in the June 2026 primary.