Context:

Maine Democrat Senate candidate Graham Platner claims his campaign has gained strength despite facing backlash over a tattoo resembling Nazi imagery and controversial past online posts. In an interview, he asserted his electability over current Governor Janet Mills while criticizing establishment politics and branding his inexperience as a positive. Despite resignations from senior staff and widespread criticism, including from both parties, Platner maintains that his campaign has not weakened and is, in fact, stronger. He has addressed his tattoo and past comments, emphasizing personal growth and the need for societal forgiveness. The ongoing support from prominent Democrats, including Bernie Sanders, suggests a divided but resilient backing as the primary approaches.

Dive Deeper:

• Graham Platner's tattoo, resembling the Totenkopf symbol, was acknowledged during a podcast appearance where he claimed he got it while drunk in Croatia. He has since denied any affiliation with Nazi ideology.

• Platner's past Reddit posts included derogatory comments about various groups and have been cited as reasons for staff resignations, including that of his political director, Genevieve McDonald.

• Despite the controversies, Platner received endorsements from notable Democrats, including Bernie Sanders, who prioritized broader issues over Platner's past remarks.

• Responses from political opponents, including Sen. Susan Collins, have been harsh, labeling Platner's comments as offensive and expressing disapproval of his previous statements about rural voters.

• Platner has publicly apologized for his past comments, stating his desire to confront his history and advocating for personal evolution and societal grace towards individuals seeking change.

• The controversy surrounding Platner has ignited discussions on platforms like ABC's The View, where co-hosts scrutinized his explanations and the timing of his disclosures.

• As the primary nears, Platner insists his campaign remains strong, countering media portrayals of decline and emphasizing a sense of internal resilience.