Maine Democratic Senate hopeful Graham Platner faces sexting scandal and Nazi‑tattoo controversy

Graham Platner, the presumptive Democratic nominee for the U.S. Senate seat in Maine, has become the focus of a series of personal controversies as the race against long‑time Republican incumbent Susan Collins intensifies. Platner’s campaign disclosed that his wife, Amy Gertner, discovered sexually explicit messages he had sent to several women on his phone and reported them to campaign staff in August 2025. Gertner later called the media coverage “shameful,” saying, “I find it really shameful that there’s a group of media outlets and people who are willing to spread gossip.” The Wall Street Journal and The New York Times reported the sexting, noting that the number of women involved may range from six to a dozen, according to former campaign aide Genevieve McDonald. In addition, Platner’s past tattoo featuring the Nazi‑linked Totenkopf symbol, which he later covered, has drawn criticism.

Democratic leaders have voiced unease. Senator Cory Booker said on ABC’s “This Week,” “Yeah, I have concerns. That guy has questions to answer, and that’s what campaigns are for.” Other senators, including Chris Murphy and Andy Kim, offered measured comments while the campaign retains endorsements from figures such as Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren. Despite the scandals, Platner continues to lead polls – a University of New Hampshire poll showed a 51‑42 advantage over Collins – and remains the leading candidate after Governor Janet Mills withdrew from the primary. The controversy has also prompted a parental‑rights group to call for banning Platner from school property for campaign events.

The sexting disclosures have sparked internal debate within the Democratic Party about Platner’s viability, but the candidate has not withdrawn and the race remains a key contest in the battle for Senate control.