Bernie Sanders Backs Graham Platner After ‘Toxic’ Relationship Allegations
Graham Platner, the presumptive Democratic nominee for the U.S. Senate in Maine, is facing allegations of “toxic” relationships and a sexting scandal. Despite reports from the New York Times and Wall Street Journal, Sen. Bernie Sanders reaffirmed his support for Platner on Saturday, citing his platform on healthcare and the economy.
What are the allegations against Graham Platner?
Multiple women have accused Platner of disturbing behavior, according to a report by the New York Times. Lyndsey Fifield, who dated Platner from 2013 to 2015, described him as “cavalierly contemptuous of women’s emotions.”
Fifield alleged that Platner was rough with her while drinking, specifically stating he regularly grabbed her by the shoulders, though she clarified she was never struck. Enny Racicot, who dated him between 2019 and 2021, pointed to past online posts about rural white Americans and sexual assault as evidence of a version of him she experienced.
Platner strongly disputes claims of physical intimidation. In an interview with MS NOW, he called allegations of physicality the statements of someone who is “politically motivated.”
However, Platner admitted to “self-medicating with alcohol” and not being a good boyfriend during a “dark period” following his combat service. His campaign further characterized Fifield as a “lifelong G.O.P. operative.”
How did the sexting scandal emerge?
The Wall Street Journal and the New York Times reported that Platner’s wife, Amy Gertner, informed the campaign last year about sexually explicit texts he sent to several women. This disclosure aimed to prevent the texts from impacting his campaign.
Genevieve McDonald, a former Maine state legislator and Platner’s former political director, told the Times that Gertner reached out to her before a rally with Sen. Bernie Sanders. McDonald indicated the texts were sent to as many as a dozen women, stating the Senate is not a “training ground for redemption.”
Platner and Gertner have dismissed these reports as “gossip” and “journalistic malpractice.” In a video statement, Gertner expressed disappointment that her disclosure was made public.
Why does Sen. Bernie Sanders still support Platner?
Sen. Bernie Sanders reaffirmed his support for the Maine nominee on Saturday via a social media post. Sanders did not directly address the allegations of toxic behavior or the sexting scandal.
Instead, the Vermont Senator insisted that Platner is “the only candidate who will do something” regarding the tax system, healthcare, and the economy. During a Friday rally, Platner told supporters, “As every single piece of that past and journey gets dug up, litigated, and weaponized, you have my back.”
What may happen next in the Maine Senate race?
The immediate focus shifts to the Maine primaries scheduled for June 9. The outcome may depend on whether the allegations continue to erode Platner’s standing with voters.
Market volatility suggests a tighter race against Republican incumbent Sen. Susan Collins. On the Polymarket crypto platform, Platner’s odds fell from 78% on May 23 to 60% as of Saturday.
Further developments could include additional corroboration of the New York Times reporting, which noted it could not independently verify Fifield’s claims of physical contact.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the nature of the physical allegations against Graham Platner?
Lyndsey Fifield alleged that Platner regularly grabbed her by the shoulders while drinking, though she specified she was never struck. Platner has denied all allegations of physicality.
Who is Genevieve McDonald?
McDonald is a former Maine state legislator who served as the political director for the Platner campaign until October of last year.
How have betting markets reacted to the scandals?
Odds have dropped significantly; Kalshi saw Platner’s odds fall from 72% to 54%, while Polymarket saw a drop from 78% to 60%.
Do you believe a candidate’s personal history should outweigh their policy platforms in a Senate race?