Maine Senate Candidate Issues Apology for Past Offensive Comments and Tattoo Controversy

Graham Platner, a Democratic candidate running for the U.S. Senate in Maine, has publicly apologized and altered a tattoo that drew criticism due to its resemblance to a notorious Nazi symbol. This comes in the wake of discovering a series of offensive Reddit posts he authored that have resurfaced.

At 41, Platner is a Marine Corps combat veteran and an oyster farmer. He aims to challenge the longstanding Republican Senator Susan Collins in the state’s Democratic primary, targeting a seat Collins has held since 1997.

Controversial Past Comments

Earlier this month, Reddit posts attributed to Platner, under the username P-Hustle, reemerged. These posts contained derogatory language, using homophobic slurs and derogatory terms against the LGBTQ+ community. He also made comments suggesting that survivors of sexual assault should take more responsibility to avoid such situations. Additionally, he expressed disdain for rural white Americans, whom he labeled as "racist" and "stupid," and referred to police using offensive language.

During one of the posts, Platner used homophobic language, writing, “Feel free to back it up with facts, f*gs.” Another post read, “This was the gayest (not in the fun dick sucking way) thing I’ve ever seen. This dude is literally everything I hate all rolled into one.”

Platner further shared his views on post-military life, describing himself as a "vegetable growing, psychedelics-taking socialist," having lost faith in the patriotic ideals he previously held. "After the war, I’ve pretty much stopped believing in any of the patriotic nonsense that got me there in the first place," he stated, emphasizing his belief in helping neighbors and living a life filled with love. He concluded by mentioning that he still owns guns, citing distrust in "fascists to act politely."

Public Apology and Clarification

In light of the resurfaced comments, Platner released a video on social media, expressing regret for his past statements. He apologized to those who were offended and acknowledged that his words do not reflect who he is today. He explained that his worst comments were made during a particularly difficult time in his life, marked by PTSD and depression after serving in two wars.

Platner stated, “I don’t want people to see me for who I was in my worst Internet comment… I don’t think any of that is indicative of who I am today, really.” He clarified in an interview that his actions were more about "f**king around the internet" than genuine belief in the statements he made.

Tattoo Controversy

The controversy extended to a tattoo on Platner’s chest, which was noticed in a video of him dancing at his brother’s wedding. The tattoo resembled the Totenkopf, a skull-and-crossbones image associated with Nazi Germany’s SS. The Anti-Defamation League identifies the Totenkopf as a hate symbol due to its historical significance.

Platner explained that he got the tattoo while intoxicated during a leave from military duty with fellow Marines in Croatia. He claimed the tattoo was chosen from a wall of images and was unaware of its connection to Nazi symbolism. In response to the backlash, he has since covered the tattoo with a new design, aligning it with his core beliefs and expressing regret for any offense caused.

Campaign Impact

The revelations have affected Platner’s campaign, leading to his political director, Genevieve McDonald, resigning. McDonald criticized Platner’s extensive knowledge of military history and found it unlikely that he remained unaware of the tattoo's implications for many years. She stated, “Maybe he didn’t know it when he got it, but he got it years ago and he should have had it covered up because he knows damn well what it means.”

The fallout from these incidents raises questions about Platner’s campaign and candidacy, as he continues efforts to connect with voters while addressing the controversies from his past. His commitment to rectify these issues and move forward remains under scrutiny as he seeks to redefine his public image.