Scandal-plagued Platner captures Democratic Senate nomination
Graham Platner wins Maine's Democratic Senate primary despite multiple controversies, setting up a challenge against Republican Sen. Susan Collins.
TL;DR
- Graham Platner won the Democratic Party's Senate nomination in Maine's primary.
- He defeated two rivals, including incumbent Democratic Gov. Janet Mills, who had suspended her bid.
- Platner will challenge Republican Sen. Susan Collins in the general election.
- Platner has faced numerous controversies, including past online comments, a tattoo, and allegations of inappropriate behavior and violence.
- He has acknowledged battling PTSD from his military service and apologized for past controversial remarks.
- Progressive figures like Sens. Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren, and Rep. Ro Khanna, support Platner.
- Republican groups have heavily criticized Platner, highlighting the controversies.
- Democrats view Maine as a key pickup opportunity to regain Senate majority.
- Sen. Susan Collins is running for her sixth term and has a voting record that is sometimes independent of President Trump's agenda.