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Recent media coverage has focused on Graham Platner, a progressive U.S. Senate candidate, including discussions about old Reddit posts and a military-related tattoo. At the same time, pollsters from the University of New Hampshire have been engaging with voters in Maine regarding the state’s Democratic primary, where Platner is competing against Governor Janet Mills and other candidates.
Despite the attention surrounding these issues, the Pine Tree State Poll conducted by the University of New Hampshire revealed strong support for Platner. The poll, which ran from October 16 to 21, found that 58% of respondents favored Platner, compared to 24% for Mills, who entered the race after being encouraged by Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY). Other candidates received less than 2% of the vote each.
Platner’s campaign has centered on making life more affordable for Maine families, shifting the Democratic Party away from corporate interests, and ensuring fair taxation for corporations and the wealthy. His platform also includes efforts to address systemic economic challenges faced by working people.
In response to the recent controversy, Platner addressed the issue of his tattoo on the podcast Pod Save America, noting that it did not prevent him from reenlisting in the military. He has since covered the tattoo and publicly denounced Nazism. Critics had raised concerns about its appearance, but Platner emphasized that the focus should remain on policy rather than personal history.
Political observers have noted that attempts to undermine Platner’s campaign have not resonated with voters, many of whom are frustrated with the current political system. The poll results reflect widespread dissatisfaction with the status quo and the national Democratic leadership, according to journalist David Sirota.
Ryan Grim of Drop Site News highlighted the disconnect between the Democratic Party leadership and its base, while Tommy Vietor of Pod Save America criticized the lack of understanding among Washington-based pundits regarding actual voter sentiment in Maine.
Following the release of the poll results, Platner held a town hall meeting in Ogunquit, Maine, where he addressed the controversy and reaffirmed his commitment to focusing on policy. He expressed frustration over the attention given to his past, stating that it detracts from critical issues such as Medicare for All and tax reform.
Platner emphasized his evolution as a candidate and a person, acknowledging past differences in opinion while highlighting his growth through interactions with others. He reiterated his determination to continue advocating for working-class interests and systemic change.
“The establishment is spooked,” he said. “If they thought this would scare me off, they clearly don’t understand what I’m capable of.”
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