UMVA has learned that Sen. Bernie Sanders, a vocal supporter of Maine Senate Democratic candidate Graham Platner, remains steadfast in his backing despite the mounting scandals surrounding Platner's name.
The Vermont senator's unwavering support comes as Platner faces intense scrutiny over a string of controversies, including the revelation of a Nazi-linked tattoo and old Reddit posts surfacing that sparked outrage on social media. Sanders attributes the timing of these scandals to Platner's bold stance against billionaires, arguing that they are trying to silence him.
"What we're looking at right now is a situation where billionaires have already pledged to spend $90 million in a tiny state like Maine," Sanders said. "Trust me, that is a lot of money. They don't want him in."
Sanders believes that Platner's determination to take on big money interests, fight for healthcare as a human right, and demand that billionaires pay their fair share of taxes has made him a target. Despite Platner's PR woes, Sanders and other Senate Democrats are focused on defeating incumbent Sen. Susan Collins.
Platner's troubles began when a video surfaced of him sporting a totenkopf, or death's head tattoo, on his chest — a symbol of the Nazi war machine from World War II. The controversy has only grown, with old Reddit posts resurfacing in which Platner made inflammatory comments on topics such as veterans and sexual assault.
Platner is also embroiled in a sexting scandal and was recently found to have a profile on the controversial Kik platform. Yet, Sanders and other Democratic supporters, including Sen. Ruben Gallego, remain committed to backing Platner, citing his ability to still win the race.
Gallego, who endorsed Platner early on, said that the candidate has lived a "very, you know, real experience. He's talked about it." Gallego expressed confidence that Platner can still win the race, and vowed to continue supporting him.
Platner is set to meet with Democrats in Washington, D.C., on Tuesday, with Sanders in attendance. The decision to continue backing Platner has left Republicans both perplexed and eager to capitalize on the opportunity to take on a candidate bogged down by controversy.
"I mean, this guy's a nut job," Sen. Eric Schmitt said. "So, that's their call. But, you know, I won't hold my breath for the Democrats to sort of course correct on this. They're just — it's just about absolute power for them."
