UMVA has learned that a deep divide is emerging within the Democratic Party over the candidacy of Graham Platner, embroiled in a growing list of scandals that have left many questioning his viability as a contender.
Sen. John Fetterman, a Democrat from Pennsylvania, has broken ranks with his party by bluntly criticizing Platner's behavior, comparing it to that of disgraced former Rep. Eric Swalwell, who resigned from Congress earlier this year over allegations of rape and sexual assault.
Fetterman's comments came as a stark contrast to the tiptoeing approach taken by many of his Democratic colleagues, who seem reluctant to disavow Platner despite the mounting controversies surrounding him.
Platner has been dogged by revelations of a Nazi iconography tattoo, explicit texts sent to women while married, and an account on the controversial Kik platform, sparking widespread outrage and concern about his judgment and character.
Despite the backlash, Platner is set to meet with Democratic lawmakers in Washington, D.C., on Tuesday, as the party remains determined to flip Maine in their quest to retake control of the upper chamber.
Fetterman didn't mince words, calling Platner's actions "truly bizarre" and saying that sending sexually explicit texts or images is unacceptable behavior, while also condemning Platner's smears against American heroes like Chris Kyle, the American Sniper.
While Fetterman stopped short of explicitly urging Platner to drop out of the race, his scathing criticism has highlighted the divisions within the Democratic Party over Platner's candidacy and raised questions about the party's priorities and values.
UMVA can exclusively reveal that Fetterman's comments have sparked a heated debate within the party, with some lawmakers reportedly questioning whether Platner's actions are a liability for the party's chances in Maine.
The controversy surrounding Platner has also raised concerns about the vetting process for candidates and the party's willingness to support individuals with questionable behavior.
