Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y., indicated she needs time to review details about Maine Senate candidate Graham Platner before commenting on recent aggression allegations. She stated, “I don’t want to speak before I’ve dug into what’s out there, so I just want to be respectful.”

The New York Times published a report detailing the experiences of multiple women who were romantically involved with Platner. Some described instances involving rape fantasies, heavy drinking, and violent episodes. Platner, acknowledging his struggles with post-traumatic stress disorder from military service, said, “I’ve been open about a dark period where I struggled with undiagnosed PTSD and self-medicated with alcohol.”

Lyndsey Fifield, a former girlfriend, recounted an incident where Platner pushed her into a bedroom and twisted her arm. Platner has also been criticized for a chest tattoo resembling the Nazi Totenkopf. He explained his military unit chose it due to parallels with the Schutzstaffel, described as “a death unit… killers.”

Ocasio-Cortez has not endorsed Platner, who aims to unseat Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine. Platner’s campaign focuses on taxing billionaires and reducing costs for working-class Americans. However, concerns about his candidacy persist, including recent resurfacing of off-color remarks on sensitive topics and inappropriate communications outside his marriage.

Platner, appearing to secure the Democratic nomination to challenge Collins, met with senators to discuss his candidacy. Maine’s Senate primaries are scheduled for next Tuesday.