Bernie Sanders Stands by Graham Platner Amid Controversy Over Tattoo and Reddit Posts

Senator Bernie Sanders from Vermont is publicly supporting Graham Platner, a Democrat and first-time Senate candidate from Maine, who is currently facing backlash due to a controversial tattoo and problematic Reddit comments. Platner’s campaign is in turmoil as these past actions resurface, igniting significant media attention.

In a recent interview with Axios, Sanders expressed his frustration with the media’s focus on Platner’s tattoo, claiming that reporters are overly concerned with superficial matters. He stated, “I’m not overly impressed by a squad of media running around saying, ‘what do you think about the tattoo on Graham Platner’s chest.'” Sanders urged the public to look beyond the tattoo and consider Platner’s overall character and journey.

Underlying the controversy is the fact that Platner, a U.S. Marine and Army veteran and an oyster farmer, once sported a tattoo that resembled the skull-and-crossbones insignia associated with the Nazi regime’s SS forces. After becoming aware of the implications of this symbol, Platner covered it with a new design that he believes better represents his values.

Additionally, resurfaced posts from Reddit reveal troubling comments made by Platner. In these posts, he mocked victims of military sexual assault and made racially insensitive remarks about tipping. His controversial statement from 2018, where he asserted that “all” police are bastards and labeled himself a communist, has drawn further scrutiny.

Controversies Impact Campaign

The fallout from these controversies has taken a toll on Platner’s campaign. His political director, Genevieve McDonald, a former state representative, resigned following the publication of the Reddit comments. While the tattoo incident attracted attention afterward, Platner has openly apologized for both situations.

Despite these challenges, a new poll indicates that Platner remains a frontrunner among a crowded field of Democratic candidates. The University of New Hampshire’s Pine Tree State poll shows that 58% of likely Democratic primary voters support him, even as discussions about the Reddit posts and tattoo continue.

Sanders Maintains Support for Platner

Sanders is steadfast in his backing of Platner, highlighting the candidate’s difficult past and recent growth. He noted, “Graham Platner went into a dark period in his life,” regarding the online remarks. Sanders further commented that such struggles are not unique to Platner, saying, “I suspect that Graham Platner is not the only American to have gone through a dark period. What he did was he expressed his darkness on the internet. Probably not a brilliant thing to do, alright? And he said things that are stupid, things that were hurtful. He has apologized for them.”

Instead of focusing on Platner’s past mistakes, Sanders advocates for a shift in public attention towards pressing issues that affect everyday Americans. He stressed that the nation should prioritize systemic challenges rather than fixating on a tattoo.

Reason Behind the Tattoo

Platner explained that he got the tattoo in 2007 during a “night of drinking” while on leave in Croatia. At the time, he claimed he was unaware of the historical significance behind the design. In a video posted on Instagram, he elaborated that the tattoo idea was impulsively selected from a flash tattoo wall while he was “carousing” with fellow Marines in Split, Croatia, and he candidly stated, “We thought it looked cool.”

Upon realizing the hateful connotations of the design, Platner expressed deep regret. He described his life as committed to anti-fascism, anti-racism, and anti-Nazism. He told reporters that he was “appalled” by the discovery that his tattoo resembled a symbol of hate.

To rectify his past choices, Platner opted to cover the tattoo rather than undergo removal, reasoning that there were no local services available in rural Maine. His new tattoo features a Celtic knot and dog imagery, which he feels more accurately represents his identity today. Showcasing his updated ink, he remarked, “This far more represents who I am now than even the skull and crossbones did.”

Further Controversial Comments

The resurfaced Reddit posts highlighted other concerns regarding Platner’s views. One post included a question that asked, “Why don’t black people tip?” in response to a discussion about racial inquiries. Another notable remark suggested that understanding the fight against fascism would necessitate access to “a good semi-automatic rifle,” indicating a strong preparedness stance. Furthermore, he asserted that an armed working class is essential for achieving economic justice.

Political Landscape in Maine

In the broader political arena, Senator Chuck Schumer stands with Maine Governor Janet Mills in the contest for the Senate seat, opposing Platner and presenting a challenge to longstanding Republican Senator Susan Collins. Recent polling data reveals that Mills commands 24% support among likely voters, while questions linger for other Democratic contenders, who collectively sit at just 1% support.

Meanwhile, Senator Collins exhibits a commanding lead within the GOP, garnering 66% support in the same polling efforts. With the Maine race heating up, both candidates will likely face scrutiny regarding their positions and past actions as the election approaches.

The Path Forward

As speculation continues around Graham Platner and Bernie Sanders’ steadfast support, one thing remains evident: the Maine Senate race is already shaping up to be a hard-fought battle. As voters assess not only the candidates’ pasts but their current visions for the future, Maine’s political landscape may well shift significantly before Election Day.