Graham Platton Wins Maine Democratic Senate Primary Amid Controversy

On June 9 2026 Maine held its primary elections. Marine veteran and oyster farmer Graham Platton captured the Democratic nomination for U.S. Senate with roughly 75 % of the vote, far ahead of former governor Janet Mills – who had suspended her campaign but remained on the ballot – and challenger David Costello. Platton will face incumbent Republican Sen. Susan Collins in the November general election, a race Democrats view as crucial for retaking Senate control.

Platton’s campaign has been shadowed by multiple controversies: a skull‑and‑crossbones tattoo later covered up after critics linked it to Nazi imagery, allegations from several women of unsettling or abusive behavior, and revelations of sexually explicit texts sent while married. He has also attracted criticism for anti‑Israel remarks and accusations that Collins is “bought” by AIPAC, prompting some Jewish Democratic groups to withhold endorsement. Nevertheless, high‑profile progressives such as Senators Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren and Rep. Ro Khanna have publicly backed him, while other Democrats have expressed discomfort.

Despite the turmoil, Platton remains the leading Democratic contender, positioning himself as an anti‑establishment outsider focused on universal health care, a wealth tax and ending U.S. aid to Israel. Maine’s ranked‑choice voting system may delay final results, but early returns show a decisive primary win.