Controversy Surrounds Veteran’s Remarks in Senate Race

Veterans have criticized Democratic Senate candidate Graham Platner over resurfaced online posts in which he demeaned the Army and mocked a soldier wounded in combat. These comments have sparked significant backlash from the veteran community.

Holland ‘Ricky’ White, a Vietnam War veteran who served with the Army’s 173rd Airborne Brigade, spoke out about the cost of military service. ‘I am a decorated veteran, and people need to understand what serving in the Army cost me,’ White told Fox News Digital. He listed health issues he suffers due to his service, including PTSD and congestive heart failure.

Platner’s comments, which label the Army as ‘full of fat, lazy trash’, have been condemned by those who have served. White expressed how ridicule is deeply personal to him, having been mocked both as a Vietnam veteran and a black man. He continues to question why he survived when others did not, believing his purpose is to make a difference.

Platner’s most controversial Reddit post in 2019 criticized a soldier shot by the Taliban, using offensive language. Steve, a veteran of Iraq and Afghanistan and a Purple Heart recipient, described Platner’s comments as vile and disrespectful to those who have risked their lives.

Retired Navy SEAL Bill Brown expressed doubt that someone who insults soldiers can fulfill a Senator’s duties, which involve supporting the military. Kate Monroe, CEO of VETCOMM and a Marine Corps veteran, emphasized that honor in service is about respect and conduct.

Retired Army staff sergeant John Rourke agreed, saying Platner’s remarks are disgraceful and not indicative of toughness. Even some of Platner’s potential future colleagues in the Senate have criticized his statements. Senator Joni Ernst, a combat veteran, condemned his mockery of wounded soldiers as despicable.

Senator Tom Cotton linked Platner’s comments with his extremist views, criticizing him for a controversial tattoo. Others, like Senator Tim Sheehy, have questioned Democratic veterans on their stance regarding Platner’s remarks. Attempts to reach Platner’s campaign and Democratic veteran Senators for comment have gone unanswered.

Senator Dan Sullivan stressed the importance of the Marine Corps’ ethos of ‘always faithful’, suggesting Platner has failed to adhere to these principles.