Graham Platner: A Marine, A Farmer, A Candidate Under Fire

Graham Platner, a 41-year-old oyster farmer from Sullivan, Maine, is no stranger to controversy. In the past week, his campaign for the U. S. Senate has been rocked by revelations of past Reddit posts and a tattoo that resembles a Nazi symbol. Despite this, Platner's supporters turned out in force for a rally at Ogunquit's Leavitt Theatre, demonstrating their unwavering support. Platner's mother, Leslie Harlow, took the stage to defend her son, sharing stories about his military service and his commitment to change. She acknowledged the "bad week" her son has had but also emphasized his intelligence, work ethic, and dedication to making a difference. The crowd responded with applause, laughter, and shouts of approval. Platner himself addressed the controversies head-on, admitting that he is "ashamed of things he once said, but I am not ashamed of who I am today. " He also spoke about the challenges he and his wife have faced, saying that they knew the "system was going to do everything it could to crush us. " Despite this, Platner remains defiant, declaring that he will not be scared off by the establishment. The tattoo controversy stems from a night of drinking with fellow Marines in 2007. Platner has since covered up the tattoo with a Celtic-inspired design. He also faced criticism for his past Reddit posts, which included derogatory comments about rural Americans and Black customers. His political director, Genevieve McDonald, resigned in the wake of these revelations. Despite the controversies, Platner's supporters remain steadfast. Tom Scontras, a 58-year-old Eliot resident, said that he does not think Platner should drop out of the race. Eleanor Newtown, a 77-year-old Wells resident, expressed her hope for Platner's campaign, saying that she believes he has the "stones to take on the beating he's going to get. "