Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y., expressed the need for more time to review recent reports about Maine Senate candidate Graham Platner before commenting on allegations of aggressive behavior. “This all kind of just came out. I’ve been doing legislative business on the floor, so I need to dig into everything further before commenting on it,” Ocasio-Cortez stated. She emphasized the importance of thoroughly understanding the situation before speaking on it.
The New York Times published a report detailing experiences of multiple women who were romantically involved with Platner in the past. Some allegations include rape fantasies, heavy drinking, and violent episodes. Platner, acknowledging his struggles, cited his battle with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) stemming from military service. In a statement to Fox News Digital, he admitted to a “dark period” in his life characterized by undiagnosed PTSD and self-medication with alcohol.
Lyndsey Fifield, an ex-girlfriend, described an incident where Platner reportedly pushed her into a bedroom, twisted her arm, and locked her inside. After falling asleep, she was eventually able to leave. In addition to these allegations, Platner allegedly fantasized about killing perceived threats, according to Fifield, who briefly spoke to Fox News Digital but declined further comment.
Fifield also noted Platner’s chest tattoo, a Totenkopf, used by Nazi death camp guards. Platner reportedly explained that he and his military unit chose the tattoo for its association with the Schutzstaffel, contradicting his previous narrative of ignorance about the Nazi emblem.
Ocasio-Cortez has not endorsed Platner, despite both being progressives. Platner seeks to challenge Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, campaigning on progressive economic policies focused on taxing billionaires and reducing costs for working-class individuals.
The recent report adds to mounting concerns about Platner’s candidacy. He faced criticism for offensive comments about sexual abuse, race, and terror, the controversial tattoo, and inappropriate communications outside his marriage. In a resurfaced Reddit post, he blamed rape victims for failing to protect themselves.
Platner admitted to exchanging explicit messages with several women after marrying his wife two years ago. As he moves closer to winning the Democratic nomination to challenge Collins, Platner met with senators to address concerns about his candidacy.