Maine Democratic Senate candidate Graham Platner denied allegations against him in his first national media interview since the controversy emerged. In a New York Times report, his ex-girlfriends accused him of engaging in ‘rape fantasies,’ heavy drinking, and violent behavior. A specific incident described Platner allegedly pulling an ex-girlfriend from a taxi during an argument.
Platner firmly stated these allegations were ‘not true’ during an appearance on MS NOW’s ‘All In with Chris Hayes.’ He rejected claims of physical altercations and denied knowledge of a controversial tattoo. Platner described some personal struggles with alcohol abuse during a difficult period following his combat service, for which he takes responsibility.
‘There’s a lot about my struggling, not being a good boyfriend, certainly self-medicating with alcohol,’ Platner said. ‘I’ve been very up front since the beginning of this campaign that that was a dark period after my combat service.’
Further scandals surface. Reports have emerged of Platner sending explicit messages to several women while married. His wife, Amy Gertner, has supported him publicly. Additionally, Platner faced backlash over a former tattoo resembling a Nazi symbol and controversial comments on Reddit.
Platner’s campaign previously criticized one witness, Lyndsey Fifield, labeling her a ‘lifelong GOP operative dedicated to electing Republicans.’ Despite ongoing controversies, some supporters continue to back Platner, arguing his past behavior shouldn’t overshadow his political aspirations.