Graham Platner, an oyster farmer and veteran, is running for the Democratic nomination for Senate in Maine. Recently, he faced backlash for past social media posts where he called himself a “communist” and made strong comments about police and rural white Americans.
In a heartfelt video, Platner apologized to those who felt hurt by his words. He admitted that some of his past views stemmed from a time of deep disillusionment after returning from military service. “I made comments I’m not proud of,” he said. “But it was a difficult period in my life.”
He described how his thoughts evolved as he found a community in Maine. “I’ve learned and grown since then. I’m proud of who I am today,” he explained.
His past posts included a mix of radical statements and serious reflections on societal issues. In a 2021 post, he noted a shift from believing in patriotic ideals to valuing kindness and helping neighbors, saying, “I became a communist” and emphasizing the importance of community.
Platner’s journey to the Senate has garnered attention, especially as he shares how hardships shaped his beliefs. In 2020, he made controversial remarks about racism in rural America, saying he was afraid to voice the truth about it.
Amid the ongoing primary, he’s not alone; Maine Governor Janet Mills is also running. This adds excitement to the race as both candidates aim to challenge Republican Senator Susan Collins.
Recent surveys show that voters are increasingly concerned about candidates’ pasts. According to a study by Pew Research, 60% of voters consider a candidate’s history on social media before making a decision. Platner’s journey, filled with ups and downs, reflects a willingness to change—something many voters may appreciate.
As he pushes forward in his campaign, Platner hopes people will see beyond past posts and recognize the man he’s become. He asks, “Please don’t judge me on my worst moments. Look at who I am now.”
For more insights, you can read reports from credible sources like CNN and The Washington Post.
