A Democratic Senate candidate’s past threatens to derail his campaign due to a Nazi-associated tattoo, sparking outrage and debate.
Story Overview
- Graham Platner, a Maine Senate candidate, faces backlash over a Nazi-like tattoo.
- Platner claims ignorance about the tattoo’s connotations when he got it in 2007.
- The tattoo has been covered up, but his campaign remains under scrutiny.
- Public opinion is divided, impacting the Democratic primary race.
Platner’s Controversial Past Comes to Light
Graham Platner, a Democratic Senate candidate in Maine, has been engulfed in controversy due to a tattoo resembling a Nazi symbol. The tattoo, which Platner got while on leave in Croatia in 2007, has sparked widespread criticism after its Nazi associations were highlighted. Platner, a former Marine and Army veteran, claims he was unaware of the symbol’s connotations at the time. Despite covering up the tattoo with a Celtic knot and dog design, the issue has raised significant concerns among voters and party officials.
Impact on the Democratic Primary
The revelation of Platner’s tattoo and his past controversial social media posts have thrown the Democratic primary into disarray. The primary includes candidates like Gov. Janet Mills, who has strong party backing, and Platner, who positioned himself as a progressive outsider. The Maine Democratic Party now faces a dilemma: whether to support Platner or back Mills, each path carrying its own set of risks and potential rewards. The controversy has amplified calls for stricter candidate vetting and accountability within the party.
The public’s reaction has been mixed, with some ridiculing Platner’s tattoo cover-up and others questioning the sincerity of his repentance. The Anti-Defamation League has weighed in, emphasizing the need for repudiation of hate symbols and warning about their impact in politics. The scandal has led to the resignation of campaign staffer Genevieve McDonald, highlighting internal divisions within Platner’s campaign team.
Long-Term Implications for Political Vetting
The incident involving Platner could have lasting implications for how political parties vet candidates. The Democratic Party, in particular, may need to reassess its processes to prevent future scandals of a similar nature. The controversy reminds voters of the importance of accountability and transparency from those seeking public office. With the Maine Senate race being a key battleground, the outcome of this primary could shape the Democratic Party’s strategy in upcoming elections. Voters will closely watch how Platner and the party handle this situation as it unfolds.
Are Democrats Dumb Enough to Nominate Nazi Tattoo Guy? https://t.co/n1eZK9wLdE
— Lois Levine Fishman (@FishmanLevine) November 12, 2025
As the Maine Senate race progresses, the controversy surrounding Graham Platner serves as a stark reminder of the challenges political candidates face when their pasts are put under the microscope. The Democratic Party will need to weigh the implications of supporting a candidate with such a controversial history and consider the potential impact on their electoral prospects. The outcome of this race could influence party strategies and the broader political landscape for years to come.
Sources:
How a Tattoo Artist Got Involved in a Nazi Symbol Cover-Up in the Maine Senate Race
Platner says he’ll remove tattoo that resembles Nazi symbol
Graham Platner says he’s covered up tattoo recognized as Nazi
