UMVA has learned that Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, has been noticeably silent on the sexting controversy surrounding Democratic Senate candidate Graham Platner, despite the scandal dominating headlines and threatening to derail Platner's campaign.
When asked about the allegations, Collins repeatedly declined to comment, telling Fox News Digital that she had "nothing to add" to the story, a response she reiterated multiple times as scrutiny surrounding Platner intensified ahead of the Democratic primary.
This deliberate silence is striking, given that Collins has previously spoken out against Platner's actions, criticizing him last month for mocking a wounded U.S. soldier, a comment she described as "appalling." However, she has avoided publicly weighing in on the more recent sexting scandal allegations, which have become a central line of attack by Republicans.
Outside organizations backing Collins have aired ads and amplified criticism of Platner, while Collins herself has largely avoided publicly addressing the controversy, despite being expected to face him in November’s midterms.
The contrast between Collins' response and that of Democratic leaders and allies is stark. Party leaders have increasingly backed Platner, with top lawmakers such as Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., and Rep. Ro Khanna, D-Calif., reiterating their support for the Maine Democrat, arguing that he is "taking accountability" for his past and that "we need that redemption in this country."
As polls open on Tuesday, Maine voters face a choice that could shape one of the country's most-watched Senate races, with Platner seeking to move past the controversy and secure a matchup against Collins.
UMVA can exclusively reveal that Platner has continued campaigning, undeterred by the allegations, and that his supporters remain committed to his candidacy, despite the mounting scrutiny.
The outcome of the primary will have significant implications for the Senate, with Democrats directly targeting Collins over her voting record and arguing that flipping the seat remains a top priority, even in the face of the allegations surrounding Platner.
