Graham Platner’s Maine Senate candidacy is a test for the socialists and progressives taking over the Democratic Party in what has been described as a Tea Party-like revolt from the Left.Platner could jeopardize the Democrats’ chances to win control of the Senate if his multiple scandals prevent him from defeating Sen. Susan Collins (R-ME) in a much bluer state than the other GOP-held seats that are believed to be in play this year.New York Times interviews with Platner’s ex-girlfriends that included accounts of physical abuse and emotional instability followed a Nazi tattoo that he has since covered up, controversial Reddit posts, and recent sexting during his marriage.
In years past, the Democratic establishment might have nudged Platner out of the race by drying up his campaign donations or urging him to drop out. But in 2026, left-wing insurgents such as Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT) and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY) can raise money, provide organizational strength, and hold sway over the nomination process that rivals that of Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY). Rep. Ro Khanna (D-CA) rallied with Platner on Friday night.
Schumer’s preferred candidate for the Maine Senate seat, Gov. Janet Mills (D-ME), suspended her campaign when she fell well behind Platner in the polls. Schumer and Democratic leaders reconciled themselves to a Platner nomination in order to keep the race against Collins competitive.
