Graham Platner, an unconventional Democrat running for the U.S. Senate, faces scrutiny for his past online comments. The oyster farmer is challenging Gov. Janet Mills for the Democratic nomination, aiming to take on Republican Sen. Susan Collins in the upcoming 2026 midterm elections. With endorsements from progressive figures like Sen. Bernie Sanders, Platner has built a significant campaign war chest, reportedly reaching $4 million just over a year before the election.
However, a CNN report has dredged up troubling posts from Platner’s past on Reddit, which he had deleted prior to announcing his candidacy. In these posts, he openly identified as a communist, expressed disdain for police with inflammatory language, and criticized rural White communities. For instance, one remark read, “I got older and became a communist,” revealing his radical shift in ideology. His views on law enforcement were equally stark, as he wrote, “Bastards. Cops are bastards. All of them, in fact.”
In discussions about rural America, he shared negative views on his own community, suggesting that “they actually are” more racist and ignorant than some might believe. Additionally, Platner didn’t shy away from expressing how his military service shaped his views. He described a journey of radicalization, noting the horrors and corruption he witnessed during his time in service. “My time in America’s imperial wars definitely radicalized me further,” he reflected, emphasizing his disillusionment with the country he once admired.
As he now shapes his public image ahead of the election, Platner insists his former comments don’t reflect his current beliefs. “That was very much me f***ing around the internet,” he stated, attempting to distance himself from his past. Platner maintains he is not a communist or socialist, proudly asserting his identity as a small business owner and a Marine veteran. He even attempted to amend his previously harsh statements about law enforcement, noting, “I have an immense amount of friends who are police officers.”
Despite his attempts at reframing his narrative, Platner remains steadfast in his condemnation of the January 6 protesters. He labeled their actions a “coup attempt,” suggesting a consistent alignment with concerns about political extremism.
Governor Mills addressed the fallout from Platner’s comments, asserting her disapproval without delving deep into the specifics. “I haven’t read the report, I haven’t seen it,” she said, while affirming, “Obviously, I would strongly disagree with those comments.”
In this rapidly evolving political landscape, Platner’s candidacy raises questions about authenticity and the ability to move past youthful indiscretions in the digital age. His journey from radical stances to a mainstream campaign reflects a complex interplay between personal history and political ambition.
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