Candidate’s Past Under Scrutiny
Maine Democratic Senate hopeful Graham Platner is facing allegations regarding his conduct in a previous relationship, following a report by the New York Times. The report outlines claims of troubling behavior made by several of his ex-partners.
Accusations from an ex-girlfriend include Platner being physically intimidating during disputes, causing feelings of unease. The report is part of broader coverage of Platner’s personal history as he leads the Democratic race for the Senate in Maine.
Candidate’s Response
In a television interview on MS Now with Chris Hayes, Platner was questioned about claims of being physically threatening in past relationships. “Did that happen?” Hayes asked. Platner replied, “No, it did not.” He acknowledged the allegations but strongly denied engaging in physical intimidation or abuse, dismissing these assertions as politically driven.
Platner reiterated in the interview, “Anything alleging physicality, anything alleging that I knew what my tattoo was…these are the statements of someone who is politically motivated.” Platner’s campaign did not immediately respond to Newsweek’s request for further information.
Details From The Report
The Times article cites interviews with over twenty people, including women who had romantic ties with Platner. Former girlfriend Lyndsey Fifield alleged incidents of physical aggression, though she stressed there was no injury caused.
The Times found other partners who described Platner positively, with one labeling him a “gentle giant.” Fifield detailed an incident where Platner allegedly twisted her arm and blocked her exit during an argument. She confirmed he never hit or punched her, but the Times was unable to independently verify her claims.
Further Allegations
Jenny Racicot, who dated Platner from 2019 to 2021, described his behavior as “reckless” and “unsettling,” claiming he arrived intoxicated at her home against her wishes. Fifield, with roots in conservative politics, has worked with Republican entities and emphasized she has no connection to Susan Collins’ campaign. Collins represents the Republican candidate running for reelection in Maine.
Additional Controversies
Alongside these relationship issues, Platner is under scrutiny for sending sexually explicit texts and for a tattoo linked to Nazi imagery, which he claims he did not understand at the time of receiving it.
Impact on Campaign
Polls indicate Platner remains competitively positioned in the race. A Public Policy Polling survey places Platner ahead of Collins by 4 points, polling 670 registered Maine voters after the allegations surfaced. The Times noted the poll sponsorship came from Platner.
Another survey by UMass Lowell/YouGov also shows Platner leading Collins, with a small portion of voters undecided. Despite the controversies, Platner continues to campaign actively for the upcoming primary election.