Graham Platner Responds to Allegations Amid Maine Senate Race

Maine Democratic U.S. Senate candidate Graham Platner is confronting allegations about his conduct in past relationships following a report by the New York Times. The article detailed accusations from former partners describing troubling behavior.

Allegations Arise

An ex-girlfriend accused Platner of physical intimidation during disagreements, saying his behavior made her feel uneasy. As the leading Democratic candidate in Maine’s competitive Senate race, Platner’s relationships are under scrutiny.

In an interview on MS Now with Chris Hayes, Platner addressed allegations of physical threats. Hayes asked directly, “Did that happen?” Platner responded with, “No, it did not.” He rejected claims of physical abuse, stating some allegations were politically motivated. Platner emphasized that anything alleging physicality was untrue.

Newsweek contacted Platner’s campaign for further clarification.

Details from the Report

The Times article involved interviews with over two dozen individuals, including several women who dated Platner. Lyndsey Fifield, a former girlfriend, claimed Platner grabbed her shoulders during arguments, while other women voiced concerns over his behavior and past remarks. Despite negative accounts, some partners described Platner positively.

Fifield alleged Platner twisted her arm during an argument and blocked her from leaving a bedroom but noted no injuries were sustained, saying, “It hurt, but didn’t break my arm.” Fifield stated Platner “never hit” or “punched” her. The Times was unable to independently verify these claims.

Jenny Racicot, another former partner, described Platner’s actions as “reckless” and “unsettling,” citing an instance of him arriving at her home intoxicated after being asked not to visit.

Fifield, involved in conservative politics, has worked on Republican campaigns and is affiliated with right-leaning organizations, but stated no connection to Susan Collins’ campaign, the incumbent Republican Senate candidate.

Further Scrutiny

Platner faces increased scrutiny over additional controversies in his campaign, including allegations of sending explicit texts and questions about a tattoo linked to Nazi imagery. He claimed ignorance of the tattoo’s meaning when acquired.

On the texting issue, Platner stated, “It stopped when it was happening,” and elaborated it was addressed early in his marriage.

Despite the focus on his personal life, Platner intends to proceed with his campaign. Maine’s primary election is on Tuesday.

Polling Insights

A Public Policy Polling survey shows Platner leading Collins by 4 points, with 49 percent support to Collins’ 45 percent, and 6 percent undecided. Conducted June 2-3, the poll accounts for recent reports with a 3.8 percent margin of error. The Times states the poll was sponsored by Platner.

Separately, a UMass Lowell/YouGov survey from May 13-26 found Platner holding 48 percent of the vote against Collins’ 43 percent. The poll indicates 6 percent are undecided, and 2 percent favor another candidate, with a 4.9 percent margin of error.