Bernie Sanders Backs Senate Candidate Amid Controversy

WASHINGTON – Senator Bernie Sanders expressed support for Senate candidate Graham Platner after reports emerged about Platner exchanging explicit texts with women at the early stage of his marriage. Sanders, who has endorsed Platner in his campaign against Republican Senator Susan Collins, emphasized the need to focus on larger issues concerning working families.

“We got a housing crisis. People can’t afford healthcare, they can’t afford groceries, they can’t afford to fill up their gas tanks. And I think it’s important for us to focus on the issues facing working families,” Sanders told reporters on Capitol Hill.

Sanders wished Platner and his wife well, while stressing the importance of addressing the challenges affecting the working class. Platner’s wife, Amy Gertner, expressed frustration over the spread of gossip instead of focusing on Platner’s campaign issues. Reports from The New York Times and The Wall Street Journal indicated that Gertner had informed Platner’s campaign about the texts early in his Senate campaign. Platner’s campaign later confirmed the messages were sent at the beginning of his marriage, which started in 2023.

Platner addressed the issue, acknowledging the impact of his actions on his marriage. “Amy and I went through something hard – because of me,” he stated. He emphasized that voters are more interested in the campaign’s ideas and progress rather than past personal matters.

Gertner reiterated in a campaign video that despite past issues, their marriage remains strong, aided by counseling.

Support for Platner extends beyond Sanders. Senator Ruben Gallego highlighted Platner’s growth and openness about personal matters. He noted that voters are more concerned with economic hardships than personal controversies.

Senator Martin Heinrich referred to the text messages as a “tabloid story,” irrelevant to Mainers focused on who supports the working class. Heinrich, who endorsed Platner, believes Mainers will overlook such issues. Platner is set to meet with Senate Democrats, unrelated to the recent news, according to a source familiar with the matter.

Other national progressives, including Senator Elizabeth Warren and Representative Ro Khanna, continue to back Platner despite past controversies. Beyond the texts, Platner has faced criticism for past Reddit comments and an old tattoo resembling a Nazi symbol.

Despite these controversies, Platner remains a strong contender, leading to Governor Janet Mills suspending her Senate campaign in April. However, Mills clarified she remains on the ballot, though she has paused active campaigning.

Senator Collins reacted briefly to the reports, noting that ongoing revelations reflect on Platner’s character.