In the bustling world of politics, you would think that a candidate’s biggest concern would be winning over the electorate with policies and charisma. But in the case of Maine Senate candidate Graham Platner, it seems the focus is instead on repairing a self-inflicted PR disaster. Instead of apologizing for a now-deleted Reddit post where he shockingly claimed that a Purple Heart veteran deserved his fate, Platner is hitting the campaign trail with none other than Bernie Sanders, hoping perhaps that the senator’s popularity will be enough to distract from his own controversies.
Platner’s remarks about veterans have sparked understandable outrage across the political spectrum. Despite his own military service, which he wears like a shield, Platner has somehow failed to grasp the simple rule of not disparaging fellow servicemen online. His attempt to sidestep responsibility by invoking his own tours in the infantry is a classic move—shielding questionable behavior behind the banner of military service, instead of addressing the tasteless comments head-on. Evidently, in Platner’s world, four tours and a wealth of injured friends serve as a get-out-of-apology-free card.
Yet, it appears this isn’t the only stain on Platner’s Reddit history. More questionable posts have resurfaced, including one where he describes the army as being filled with “fat, lazy trash.” A sentiment that must have the veterans in Maine just clamoring to cast their ballots for him. Despite these inflammatory remarks, Democratic leaders seem to be stubbornly sticking by him, refusing to denounce his online antics. It’s rather telling when a party chooses silence—or is it blissful ignorance?—over acknowledging a candidate’s obvious faults.
Curiously, despite all the controversy swirling around him, polls show Platner leading incumbent Senator Susan Collins by seven points. One must wonder if Platner’s unique brand of dark humor and poorly-timed honesty actually resonates with folks in Maine. Or perhaps the electorate has grown weary of the political status quo and sees Platner as a much-needed shake-up, Reddit scandals and all. However, it’s bizarre to see this kind of behavior gaining ground in what is otherwise expected to be a dignified contest.
However, the question remains: can Platner maintain his lead without addressing these damaging posts? His current strategy seems to involve ignoring the chorus of criticism while hoping voters will focus more on his speeches alongside Bernie Sanders, rather than his less-than-flattering internet commentary. Only time will tell if this high-risk gamble pays off. But one thing is certain—Platner has certainly set the stage for a colorful campaign season in Maine.
