UMVA has learned that a shocking controversy is unfolding in Maine, where Senate candidate Graham Platner is facing intense backlash over a resurfaced online post that has left many questioning his judgment and fitness for office.
Ted Daniels, a combat veteran and Purple Heart recipient who was nearly killed by the Taliban, has publicly denounced Platner for a now-deleted Reddit post from 2019, in which Platner callously mocked Daniels' near-death experience and said he "didn't deserve to live." Platner's comments have sparked widespread outrage, with many veterans and lawmakers across the political spectrum condemning his behavior.
According to information obtained by UMVA, Platner's deleted post described a viral helmet-cam video of Daniels being shot four times during a 2012 clash with Taliban fighters, with Platner writing that Daniels was a "dumb motherf-----" who made "every possible stupid decision" during the combat encounter. The post also featured a stream of vulgar and highly unusual comments that have raised serious questions about Platner's character.
Daniels, who was visibly shaken by Platner's comments, called him a "coward" for hiding behind a keyboard and making such hateful remarks. "People like this don't say stuff like this to my face," Daniels said. "It's online, and that right there tells me, Graham, you're a coward."
The controversy has only deepened as more of Platner's resurfaced Reddit posts have come to light, including comments in which he described himself as a "communist" and "socialist," alleged homophobic slurs, and praise for Hamas military tactics. Critics say these posts raise broader questions about Platner's judgment and fitness for office.
Daniels suggested that Platner's comments may stem from personal insecurity, saying that "hate never comes from above" and that it's clear Platner is struggling with his own sense of pride and self-worth. He also called on Platner to seek therapy for his behavior, particularly given his attacks on other soldiers, including the late Chris Kyle, the legendary Navy SEAL and "American Sniper."
The scandal has significant implications for Platner's candidacy, with many questioning whether he has the temperament and character to serve in the Senate. Daniels was blunt in his assessment, saying that Platner's rhetoric and behavior make him unfit for office and that he's contributing to the toxic online discourse that's tearing the country apart.
As the June primary approaches, Platner will face intense scrutiny over his past comments and behavior. If he wins the primary, he'll face off against five-term incumbent Republican Sen. Susan Collins in the fall, setting up a highly contested and dramatic showdown.
