Graham Platner’s contentious Senate campaign has collapsed, leaving behind significant controversies. These issues are now being used by Republicans against Democrats in another important Maine midterm race.
Former Maine Governor Paul LePage, the Republican candidate for the state’s 2nd Congressional District, criticized Democratic nominee Matt Dunlap for his previous support of Platner. LePage aims to win the Democrat-held seat in a district that had supported Donald Trump in past elections. The National Republican Congressional Committee is also focusing on this race to maintain their slim House majority.
LePage stated, “Way too close to Platner. Way too close to Bernie. Way too close to AOC. That whole gang,” in reference to Dunlap. He linked Platner to progressive figures such as Bernie Sanders and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.
Dunlap’s campaign manager, Harry Burke, called LePage’s criticisms “desperate and weak.” Platner initially received backing from Sanders and other progressives while challenging Republican Sen. Susan Collins. However, Platner exited the race following a report that included a rape allegation from a former partner. Calls from influential Democrats demanded his withdrawal.
Platner, who had been a decorated combat veteran and oyster farmer, faced numerous allegations. These included inflammatory Reddit comments, an offensive tattoo, and allegations of sexually explicit communication with multiple women. He repeatedly denied these accusations and described them as fabrications.
Republicans see Platner’s controversies as an opportunity to attack Democrats who supported him. Republican National Committee Chair Joe Gruters stated, “Every Democrat that endorsed Graham Platner endorsed a rapist, and every Democrat that stayed silent was complicit.”
Dunlap had endorsed Platner and appeared with him shortly before the primary. Following a surge of calls for Platner to step down, Dunlap eventually urged Platner to withdraw, stating the allegations were serious.
Burke accused LePage of not being genuine, referencing his move to Florida and tax issues there. He also dismissed GOP criticisms as “desperate and weak.”
CJ Warnke from the House Majority PAC argued that voters in key districts are more concerned with economic issues and less with Platner’s controversies. Warnke emphasized that Democrats are focusing on lowering living costs and fighting corruption.
Currently, political analysts suggest LePage has the upper hand in the Maine Congressional race. The Cook Political Report and Inside Elections have labeled the race as Likely Republican, while Sabato’s Crystal Ball categorizes it as Leans Republican.