Democratic candidate Graham Platner, vying for a Maine Senate seat, is under renewed scrutiny. The Wall Street Journal revealed on Saturday that Amy Gertner, Platner’s wife, informed campaign officials he sent sexually explicit texts to multiple women shortly after their November 2023 marriage.
This disclosure appeared over a week before the June 9 primary, where Platner, a Marine Corps veteran and oyster farmer, has gained polling momentum against the Republican incumbent, Senator Susan Collins. His campaign has potential implications for Senate control.
Gertner commented to the Journal, stating, “I know who Graham is. I know the man I married and the husband he has been to me.” She expressed feeling “deeply hurt” by a former staff member who leaked the information.
Newsweek has reached out to Platner’s campaign for remarks. Why It Matters Maine often leans Democratic in presidential elections, yet supports moderate Republicans like Collins. Political analysts label this Senate race a “toss-up.”
With Democratic Governor Janet Mills exiting the race, Platner is viewed as a frontrunner for the primary against Collins. Backed by Senators Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren, Platner holds a strong position among Democrats aiming to reclaim Senate majority.
However, Platner’s campaign confronts other controversies. These include prior Reddit posts with offensive comments, a controversial tattoo, and accusations of inappropriate past behavior. Platner has apologized, attributing these issues to PTSD post-military service.
What to Know According to reports, Gertner informed campaign aides in August about Platner’s explicit texts to several women. The goal was to ensure the campaign was informed. Officials deemed the issue a private matter between Gertner and Platner, who were in marriage counseling.
Gertner, in a campaign statement, acknowledged their “fertility journey” struggles and counseling efforts. She noted that their “marriage today is stronger than ever.”
Genevieve McDonald, a past campaign political director, stated Gertner disclosed Platner’s communications with up to twelve women. A current campaign official reported communications with up to six women ended before their campaign launched.
McDonald resigned after further controversies, stating, “The Senate needs leaders with moral clarity.” Gertner lamented about confiding personal marriage details to a colleague she thought of as a friend.
What Do Polls Show? According to a Pine Tree State Poll by the University of New Hampshire Survey Center, Platner leads with 51% support against Collins’ 42%. Undecided voters represent about 6% and 2% back another candidate.
Previous polling from February showed similar results, with Platner leading by 11%. Independent voters remain divided as 47% support Collins and 44% back Platner. The poll involved 1,397 residents with a 2.6% margin of error.
A Pan Atlantic Research poll demonstrated a 7-point lead for Platner. Their survey showed Platner at 48% and Collins at 41%, with 11% undecided. Their margin of error was 3.7%, surveying 827 likely voters.
Another poll from the Maine People’s Resource Center showed a 9-point lead for Platner. Emerson College polling in March indicated a similar 7-point lead for Platner, contributing to a competitive election narrative.