Story perspectives

Sanders, Warren Back Platner Amid Sexting Scandal; Poll Shows Lead

6/5/2026

Summary

Story summary

Senators Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren pledged to keep supporting Platner’s Senate bid despite the sexting allegations.
Polymarket odds that Platner would secure Democratic nomination fell to 64 percent from 69 percent after the allegations emerged.
An internal poll released a week after the scandal showed Platner leading Susan Collins by four points.
Director Genevieve McDonald disclosed the texts and reported that adviser Morris Katz threatened her with retaliation for the leak.

History

Historical Context

In 1998 the House impeached President Bill Clinton on perjury and obstruction after the Starr Report, but the Senate fell short of the 67-vote threshold, acquitting him with a 55-45 margin on perjury. That episode shows how U.S. politicians, like today’s Sanders and Warren supporting Platner despite sexting claims, can retain party backing after personal scandals.

1 of 2

Story summary

Senators Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren pledged to keep supporting Platner’s Senate bid despite the sexting allegations.
Polymarket odds that Platner would secure Democratic nomination fell to 64 percent from 69 percent after the allegations emerged.
An internal poll released a week after the scandal showed Platner leading Susan Collins by four points.
Director Genevieve McDonald disclosed the texts and reported that adviser Morris Katz threatened her with retaliation for the leak.

1 / 2