Maine Senate Candidate Graham Platner Faces Allegations and Polls

Allegations Surface Against Graham Platner

Maine Democratic U.S. Senate candidate Graham Platner faces allegations from past relationships. A New York Times report reveals accusations from former partners about his behavior. An ex-girlfriend alleges Platner was physically intimidating during arguments, causing her unease. This adds to a series of stories scrutinizing Platner’s personal history.

Platner Responds to Allegations

In an interview on MS Now with Chris Hayes, Platner addressed these allegations. When asked if he had been physically threatening, he denied the accusations. “There are some allegations in this piece that I just want to be kind of unequivocal about, are simply not true,” Platner stated. He suggested the allegations stem from political motivation.

Details from the Times Article

The Times article includes input from over two dozen individuals. A former girlfriend, Lyndsey Fifield, alleges Platner grabbed her shoulders during arguments. Other women expressed concerns over his behavior and past statements. However, some former partners described Platner positively, with one calling him a “gentle giant.”

“It hurt,” Fifield said, adding, “It didn’t cause an injury, it didn’t break my arm.”

Allegations and Political Ties

Fifield, involved in conservative politics, claimed Platner once twisted her arm behind her back. She has worked for Republican campaigns and right-leaning organizations. Another former partner, Jenny Racicot, labeled Platner’s behavior as “reckless” and “unsettling.” Racicot alleged he appeared at her home intoxicated, despite her requests.

Scrutiny and Campaign Decisions

Platner’s campaign faces scrutiny due to controversies, including explicit text messages and a controversial tattoo. When asked about the texting scandal, Platner stated it was addressed early in his relationship.

Poll Results Amidst Allegations

Despite allegations, Platner remains in the race. A Public Policy Polling survey shows him leading incumbent Susan Collins by 4 points. Conducted after reports of explicit messages, it surveyed 670 registered Maine voters with a 3.8 percent margin of error. Another poll from UMass Lowell/YouGov indicates Platner having 48 percent support compared to Collins’ 43 percent.