UMVA has learned that Sen. Ed Markey, D-Mass., has openly expressed his support for Platner to secure the Senate spot in Maine, citing his strong opposition to President Donald Trump's authoritarian tendencies.
Markey's endorsement is a significant show of support, as he boldly stated that Platner's stance against Trump is a crucial factor in the election, saying, "We have in Maine, a candidate, that is Platner, who wants to stop Trump’s authoritarian destruction of our democracy."
In a stark contrast, Markey criticized the incumbent senator for not standing up to Trump, emphasizing that voters who care about the Constitution have only one clear choice. This statement highlights the growing divide within the Democratic party over Platner's candidacy.
Despite the controversy surrounding Platner, many Democratic lawmakers, including Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., have continued to back him, arguing that flipping Maine's now Republican-held Senate seat remains a top priority.
However, not all Democrats have offered an outright endorsement. Sen. Jeanne Shaheen, D-N.H., took a more cautious approach, stating that the decision ultimately belongs to Maine voters, saying, "I think that’s up to the voters of Maine to decide."
Shaheen also emphasized that inappropriate sexual behavior should not be condoned, but stopped short of making a direct statement about Platner's candidacy. This nuanced approach reflects the delicate balance that some Democrats are trying to strike.
Some Democratic senators have declined to weigh in on the controversy or say whether they still support Platner as the primary election approaches. Sen. Chris Coons, D-Del., simply stated, "I haven't met him, I haven't engaged with him, and I'm not going to answer that."
Similarly, Sen. Brian Schatz, D-Hawaii, avoided making a statement, saying, "I don’t do campaign stuff in the Capitol." Their reluctance to comment has raised questions about their level of support for Platner.
Platner recently invited the entire Senate Democratic caucus to a meeting, which was attended by about half a dozen senators, including Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., and Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass. The meeting has sparked speculation about Platner's ability to rally support within the party.
With the primary election just days away, Maine voters are faced with a critical decision that could impact the balance of power in the Senate. The controversy surrounding Platner has added a layer of complexity to an already closely watched Senate race.
