In Bar Harbor, Maine, Graham Platner resumed his campaign activities on Friday, indirectly confronting recent allegations from three women accusing him of “toxic” and “unsettling” behavior. Despite these allegations, Platner received strong support from a large group of his followers who cheered for him and applauded several times.
Platner, a Democratic Senate candidate, described Maine as a source of support in his personal recovery from PTSD. He stated, “Since the beginning, Maine, you had my back,” referencing his journey of accountability and growth even when faced with old, harmful statements he made online.
The New York Times recently published allegations made by former girlfriends. One of them, Lyndsey Fifield, stated that during their relationship from 2013 to 2015, Platner physically restrained her during an argument. Platner, who is a former military veteran, suggested some claims were politically driven and untrue.
During the event, Platner’s wife, Amy Gertner, received recognition from the crowd. Although the Wall Street Journal had reported on Platner’s explicit text messages, which Gertner disclosed as a potential campaign risk, she expressed support for her husband and their strengthened marriage.
Platner declined to speak with reporters but participated in local media interviews. In discussions, he denied any violent conduct. He told MS NOW that some claims were unfounded and motivated by politics.
Platner aims to shift focus from personal allegations to the broader campaign. His team reported raising $200,000 since the allegations surfaced, a campaign-best since his opponent, Gov. Janet Mills, withdrew from the race. The primary election is approaching on Tuesday.
During his speech, Platner criticized his general election opponent, Republican Sen. Susan Collins, labeling her moderate image as deceptive. Platner argued that her record contradicted her stance on key issues, such as her support for Brett Kavanaugh, highlighting his impact on voting rights and women’s reproductive rights.
“Either she lied to us or she’s a fool,” Platner said of Collins. “Either way, you shouldn’t be a United States senator from the state of Maine.”
Supporters at the event expressed continued backing for Platner. Janice Low, for example, committed to voting for him, criticizing the military actions in Iran and aiming to replace Collins, who often sided with Trump. Her husband, Galen Low, valued Platner’s growth despite past mistakes, and State Rep. Gary Friedmann praised Platner’s speech and commitment to serving the people of Maine.