Story perspectives

Platton Wins Maine Primary, Lindsey Graham Clinches SC Nomination

6/11/2026

Summary

Story summary

Graham Platton, a newcomer, won the Maine Democratic Senate primary despite a Nazi-symbol tattoo and offensive posts.
His victory was projected within 90 minutes after polls closed, after Governor Janet Mills withdrew in April.
Sen. Lindsey Graham won South Carolina’s Senate nomination, beating Rep. Mark Lynch, who funded a $5 million loan.
Pediatrician Annie Andrews secured the Democratic nomination, the Democratic Senate bid since 2000.
Graham received President Donald Trump’s endorsement.

History

Historical Context

In 1968 former Alabama governor George Wallace left the Democratic Party to run under the newly formed American Independent Party, campaigning on segregation and “law-and-order” themes. His third-party bid captured five Southern states, 45 electoral votes and nearly ten million votes, showing how extremist platforms can still win electoral support. The episode foreshadows later contests where fringe candidates achieve party nominations.

1 of 2

Story summary

Graham Platton, a newcomer, won the Maine Democratic Senate primary despite a Nazi-symbol tattoo and offensive posts.
His victory was projected within 90 minutes after polls closed, after Governor Janet Mills withdrew in April.
Sen. Lindsey Graham won South Carolina’s Senate nomination, beating Rep. Mark Lynch, who funded a $5 million loan.
Pediatrician Annie Andrews secured the Democratic nomination, the Democratic Senate bid since 2000.
Graham received President Donald Trump’s endorsement.

1 / 2