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Graham Platner Wins Maine Senate Primary with 75% Amid Controversy

6/12/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Graham Platner won Maine’s Democratic Senate primary with roughly 75 % of the vote after Governor Janet Mills withdrew.
His campaign was criticized for past Reddit comments, a tattoo resembling a Nazi symbol, and alleged sexual texts, which opponents say could damage his candidacy.
Senate Minority Leader Charles Schumer, progressive senators, and both parties pledged to back Platner and earmarked tens of millions for advertising.

History

Historical Context

Since 1920 New Hampshire has hosted the nation’s first primary, and the January 8 2008 contest drew almost 288,000 voters, with Hillary Clinton winning the popular vote over Barack Obama. That early showdown demonstrated how front-loading can shape party strategy, a pattern Democrats now apply to later contests such as Maine’s 2024 Senate primary.

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Story summary

Graham Platner won Maine’s Democratic Senate primary with roughly 75 % of the vote after Governor Janet Mills withdrew.
His campaign was criticized for past Reddit comments, a tattoo resembling a Nazi symbol, and alleged sexual texts, which opponents say could damage his candidacy.
Senate Minority Leader Charles Schumer, progressive senators, and both parties pledged to back Platner and earmarked tens of millions for advertising.

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