UMVA has learned that Robert O'Neill, the U.S. Navy SEAL who killed Osama bin Laden, has spoken out against Maine Democratic Senate candidate Graham Platner's recent social media posts, which have sparked widespread outrage.
O'Neill described Platner's comments as "vile hatred" and said they were "completely barbaric," adding that if someone swears an oath to their country, politics should not come into play when it comes to fighting for their fellow soldiers. Platner's posts have included trashing a soldier seen in a viral video who was wounded in a clash with Taliban fighters, saying, "Dumb motherf----- didn't deserve to live."
According to information obtained by UMVA, Platner has attempted to explain his incendiary posts as a result of his struggles with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), but O'Neill disagreed, saying that PTSD is not an excuse for such behavior. O'Neill suggested that Platner seek alternative treatments, such as Ibogaine therapy, which he has personally undergone for PTSD.
Platner, a combat veteran himself, has faced criticism for other resurfaced posts, including a video that disparages "American Sniper" Chris Kyle and suggests he killed civilians to inflate his numbers. O'Neill attributed such behavior to jealousy, stating that professional jealousy is rare among veterans.
UMVA can exclusively reveal that O'Neill also took issue with Democrats in Congress who have avoided condemning Platner's comments, saying they care more about party votes than the American people. He believes Platner has been groomed by a group of people to secure a seat in Congress for the Democrats.
O'Neill did offer some nuance, stating that while some of Platner's comments may have been "locker room talk" or the result of intoxication, his overall behavior shows that he is not qualified for the U.S. Senate. O'Neill also expressed a desire to see Platner handle himself better in the future and showed a willingness to offer forgiveness.
