Maine Democratic Senate Primary Sees Platner Lead Mills Amid Controversies
The 2026 Maine Democratic Senate primary is marked by Graham Platner's poll lead over Janet Mills, despite Platner's apologies for past online comments and a controversial tattoo, as national Democrats cautiously navigate the race.
Overview
- The 2026 Democratic primary for a crucial U.S. Senate seat in Maine is underway, featuring candidates Graham Platner and Janet Mills vying for the nomination.
- A University of New Hampshire survey indicates Graham Platner currently holds a significant lead over Janet Mills, polling at 58% to her 24% among likely primary voters.
- Senate Democrats are cautiously approaching the Maine primary, with some supporting Platner for his ability to generate excitement, while others, like Chuck Schumer, back Mills.
- First-time candidate Graham Platner has gained national attention after issuing apologies for past online comments and covering up a controversial tattoo, which was a Nazi symbol.
- The Maine primary election is scheduled for June 2026, providing candidates ample time to engage with voters in this key race to potentially unseat Republican Sen. Susan Collins.
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Analysis
Center-leaning sources cover this story neutrally by presenting a balanced profile of Graham Platner. They report both his campaign's strengths and the controversies surrounding his past social media posts and tattoo, while also including his apologies and explanations. This approach provides readers with a comprehensive overview without editorializing.
"Graham Platner, a veteran and oyster farmer from Maine who is running as the Democratic candidate for the U.S. Senate, is currently in the national spotlight due to Reddit posts from 2018 and a tattoo of a skull-and-crossbones, which is associated with Nazi symbolism."
USA TODAY"Despite his recent controversy, a rare poll of the race shows Platner trouncing Mills by 34 points."
NBC News"The Mills-Platner race represents some of the most significant divides inside the Democratic Party — including age and generational angst, moderation versus populism, tested political veterans versus raw and telegenic fresh faces."
NBC NewsArticles (4)
Center (3)
FAQ
Graham Platner's lead is fueled by strong support from self-described socialists, progressives, and young voters, according to a University of New Hampshire survey.
National Democrats are cautious because Platner, despite his popularity and ability to generate excitement, has apologized for past controversial online comments and a tattoo that was a Nazi symbol, leading some leaders like Chuck Schumer to support Mills instead.
The Maine Democratic Senate primary election is scheduled for June 2026.
The winner of the Maine Democratic primary could potentially challenge Republican Senator Susan Collins, the incumbent senator.
Graham Platner has issued apologies for his past online comments and has covered up a controversial tattoo that was a Nazi symbol.
History
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