A senior House Democrat has added to the criticism of Senate candidate Graham Platner’s claim of ignorance regarding his tattoo’s Nazi connections. Representative Brad Schneider, Democrat from Illinois, expressed skepticism, stating, “There’s no way he didn’t know what the tattoo was.” He further advised Platner to “own it and move on,” but lamented that Platner appears unwilling to do so.
Schneider, who leads the largest caucus among House Democrats, is one of the more prominent Democrats to scrutinize the Maine Senate hopeful. Platner has faced accusations over sending sexually explicit messages, a lengthy history of offensive social media posts, and alleged abuse in past relationships.
Platner, known for his far-left populism, is challenging incumbent Republican Senator Susan Collins in a highly competitive race for Maine’s Senate seat in the upcoming midterm elections. Despite being the presumptive nominee for Maine Democrats, Platner’s candidacy has sparked concerns within the party due to these ongoing scandals.
The New York Times recently reported claims from Platner’s ex-girlfriends, alleging he was aware of his tattoo’s Nazi implications. Lyndsey Fifield, one of the women, told The Times that Platner explained the meaning behind the tattoo’s design, referring to it as “my Totenkopf.” She claimed he jokingly acknowledged its Nazi association, suggesting his military unit had similarities to the Nazi SS forces.
Platner denied these claims during an interview with Chris Hayes on MS NOW, encountering difficulties when questioned about Fifield’s August 2025 text to friends describing his tattoo as Nazi-linked. Platner responded, “I can’t say why,” indicating he was not privy to Fifield’s messages. He insisted he was unaware of the tattoo’s background at that time.
Fifield also accused Platner of assault during their relationship, an accusation he refuted. Having worn the tattoo for nearly 20 years, Platner had it covered after it became a campaign issue in late 2025. He claims he obtained it during a drinking session with fellow Marines in Croatia in 2007.
Democratic figures like Rep. Jake Auchincloss from Massachusetts and Senator John Fetterman from Pennsylvania have joined in the criticism. Fetterman told CNN, “All I’m saying is when I was growing up, if someone had a clear Nazi tattoo on them, you probably could conclude that they’re a Nazi sympathizer.” He challenged Platner to either defend or dismiss these symbols.
With Democratic divisions apparent over Platner’s candidacy, Schneider expressed uncertainty regarding his support if he were to vote in Maine. He stated, “I’ll leave it to the people of Maine to elect who they want,” adding relief at not having to make such a choice.
Schneider’s New Democrat Coalition commands significant influence, boasting over 100 members within the House Democratic caucus. Fox News Digital sought comments from Platner’s campaign preceding the article’s publication.