Maine Senate candidate Graham Platner faces backlash over Nazi tattoo

Democratic U.S. Senate candidate Graham Platner from Maine revealed that he received a Totenkopf (skull‑and‑crossbones) tattoo while serving in the Marines in Croatia in 2007. The tattoo, described as a “special skull and crossbones ‘Totenkopf’ tattoo, similar to those worn by Hitler’s SS,” resurfaced during his campaign and was covered with a new design in late October 2025 rather than being removed by laser.

The controversy drew mixed media responses. The New York Times reported the issue with little criticism, noting that columnist Frank Bruni argued, “If Democrats Have Appropriate Fear of Trump, They Will Elect Platner,” and emphasizing Platner’s potential to unseat moderate Republican Senator Susan Collins. Critics highlighted Platner’s past support for Hamas and appearances on antisemitic podcasts, raising concerns about extremist sympathies.

Despite the tattoo dispute, Platner secured the Democratic nomination for the June primary and is positioned as a challenger who could shift the Senate balance by defeating Collins.