Maine Senate race heats up: Collins‑linked super PAC targets Graham Platner, veteran group backs him

A super PAC supporting Republican Senator Susan Collins has launched a new attack website and TV ads aimed at Democratic challenger Graham Platner. The site highlights Platner's past online comments, including remarks about police, tips, and use of slurs, as well as a skull‑and‑crossbones tattoo that critics say resembles a Nazi symbol. The PAC, Pine Tree Results, has spent $4 million on ads since the incumbent’s withdrawal, and donors include Blackstone CEO Stephen Schwarzman and New Balance chair James Davis.

Separately, VoteVets PAC announced its endorsement of Platner, praising his four combat tours and criticizing Collins for supporting what it called the “most anti‑veteran administration in history.” VoteVets senior advisor Major General (Ret.) Paul Eaton said, “Graham knows the cost of service…The choice in this race couldn’t be more clear.” The endorsement underscores Platner’s veteran credentials and positions the race as a contest over military and foreign‑policy issues.

Polls show Platner leading Collins by seven points, though his favorability has slipped since March, suggesting the attack ads may be having an effect.