Graham Platner officially became the Democratic nominee in Maine’s blockbuster Senate race Tuesday, where he’ll take on vulnerable incumbent Republican Sen. Susan Collins.
Platner, an oyster farmer and Marine veteran, has run a progressive campaign, initially in opposition to Gov. Janet Mills (D). Mills dropped out of the race in April, making him effectively the nominee, but he officially won the primary Tuesday.
He has faced a number of controversies, including over vulgar social media posts, allegations of abusive relationships and a tattoo, since covered up, depicting a symbol linked to Nazism.
“If you give me a chance, I will be a senator for the people who cannot afford to buy a senator,” Patner told supporters. “I will stand up for you and against billionaires and greedy corporations. I will serve you, the people of Maine, not some lobbyist or party boss. I will be the champion for your dreams as if it were my own, no matter the challenge or the expense. I will fight for you.”
