Maine Senate candidate Graham Platner, a Democrat backed by Vermont’s Bernie Sanders, is facing scrutiny over past decisions that many consider disqualifying. Central to the controversy is a tattoo he once inked on his body—a skull-and-crossbones symbol resembling the Totenkopf associated with Hitler’s SS forces. Platner claims he got this tattoo in 2007 during a night of drinking while serving in the Marine Corps in Croatia. He insists he was unaware of its troubling implications at the time.
Platner’s explanation is striking. He describes a scene of camaraderie with fellow Marines, choosing the design from a flash tattoo wall in Split without understanding its dark roots. “We thought it looked cool,” he stated in a recent video. However, as criticisms emerged, prompting him to cover the tattoo with another design, his narrative did not quell the backlash. “I have lived a life dedicated to anti-fascism, anti-racism, and anti-Nazism,” he added, expressing his horror upon learning of the symbol’s historical context.
The revelations have escalated with the resurfacing of deleted Reddit posts containing derogatory comments about military sexual assault victims, racially charged remarks on tipping, and critiques of police. Platner has attributed his past comments to struggles with depression and PTSD from his military service in Afghanistan, a rationale that has not resonated with all. Democratic primary rival Jordan Wood labeled Platner’s comments and tattoo as “disqualifying,” announcing, “This is not who we are as Mainers or as Democrats.”
Despite the storm, Platner remains defiant, vowing to continue his campaign. He emphasizes that his past is part of his journey, one marked by difficulties and struggles that have shaped who he is today. “I don’t look at this as a liability,” he articulated. “I’m very proud of who I am.” In his video response, he deflected further discussions about his tattoo, stating, “Every second we spend talking about a tattoo I got in the Marine Corps is a second we don’t talk about Medicare for All.”
This incident poses critical questions about accountability, personal history, and the standards by which candidates are judged. As Platner sparks discussions about his past and its perception, the election races on in Maine’s political landscape. The eyes of the state and the nation remain fixed on how these transgressions will shape the future of his candidacy.
While the primary remains competitive, with two-term Governor Janet Mills and Wood also in the running, the focus is squarely on Platner. It’s a cautionary tale for those seeking public office: past actions, especially the symbolic choices one makes, can resurface in ways that significantly jeopardize political aspirations.
The ramifications of this controversy extend beyond Platner, bringing to light broader themes regarding sincerity, integrity, and the evolving standards voters expect from their representatives. As the primary draws nearer, all eyes will be watching how voters react to not just Platner’s current position, but his past as well.
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