Trivia games and happy hours help power Platner's Senate campaign in Maine
AP News • • nation
Key Points:
- Graham Platner, a first-time Democratic U.S. Senate candidate in Maine, has faced controversy over a Marine-era tattoo linked to Nazi imagery and past inflammatory online comments, which he has since disavowed and covered up.
- Despite scrutiny, Platner’s populist, antiestablishment message focusing on affordability and opposition to the “oligarchy and billionaires” has energized supporters and increased his visibility through numerous town halls and community events.
- Platner is competing against incumbent Gov. Janet Mills in the June 9 primary, with Mills backed by Senate Democratic leaders and seen as the safer, more moderate choice in a state known for electing experienced politicians.
- Platner has outspent Mills significantly on advertising and maintains strong grassroots enthusiasm, but faces skepticism from establishment Democrats and challenges overcoming Maine voters’ historical preference for known candidates.
- The primary outcome is pivotal as the winner will face Republican Sen. Susan Collins in a race that could influence control of the U.S. Senate.
