Maine Senate Candidate Graham Platner Apologizes for Controversial Tattoo Amidst Backlash

Maine Senate Candidate Graham Platner Apologizes for Controversial Tattoo Amidst Backlash

Maine Democrat Graham Platner, a newcomer in the Senate race and endorsed by Senator Bernie Sanders, has publicly apologized after a Nazi-style tattoo from his past resurfaced following intense criticism from voters and political opponents. Despite the growing scrutiny, Platner has pledged to continue his campaign.

Details about the tattoo emerged when old social media posts were highlighted, showing that Platner once sported a skull-and-crossbones tattoo resembling the Totenkopf, a symbol infamously used by Hitler’s SS paramilitary forces.

Origins of the Tattoo

Platner revealed that he got the tattoo in 2007 while serving on leave in Croatia during his time in the Marine Corps. He stated that he was unaware of the historic connotations attached to the design at that time, attributing it to a night of drinking. In a bid to address the controversy, he later covered the tattoo with a different design.

In an Instagram video released on Wednesday, Platner recounted the circumstances of the tattoo’s inception, stating that the design was picked from a flash tattoo wall while he was enjoying time with fellow Marines in Split, Croatia. He noted, “We thought it looked cool.”

However, he expressed deep regret upon discovering its connections to hate. Platner claimed, “I have lived a life dedicated to anti-fascism, anti-racism, and anti-Nazism” and described himself as “appalled” to learn about the symbol’s negative implications.

Tattoo Removal Challenges

Platner emphasized that during his military service, he was never questioned about the tattoo and had successfully cleared Army background checks. When questioned about his decision to cover up rather than remove the tattoo, he cited the limited availability of tattoo removal services in rural Maine.

“Going to a tattoo removal place is going to take a while,” Platner explained. “I wanted this thing off my body.”

Regarding the new design, Platner stated that he now sports a Celtic knot surrounded by imagery of dogs as a tribute to his family pets. He humorously added, “This far more represents who I am now than even the skull and crossbones did,” as he lifted his shirt to show the updated tattoo.

Backdrop of Controversies

This incident has surfaced amidst additional issues for Platner, including deleted Reddit posts where he appeared to mock victims of military sexual assaults, criticized police, and made comments with racial undertones regarding tipping practices. He later apologized for these statements, attributing them to struggles with depression and PTSD stemming from his military service in Afghanistan.

Despite these allegations, Platner remains determined to pursue his campaign with the backing of Sanders, who has yet to comment on the situation directly.

Opposition Calls for Withdrawal

Jordan Wood, a fellow Democrat and former chief of staff to Representative Katie Porter, has publicly challenged Platner to withdraw his candidacy. Wood stated, “Graham Platner’s Reddit comments and Nazi SS Totenkopf tattoo are disqualifying and not reflective of who we are as Mainers or as Democrats.” He emphasized the need for Democrats to condemn hate and division, particularly in a political climate influenced by figures such as former President Donald Trump.

Platner’s Perspective

In response to the backlash, Platner has framed the controversy as part of his life story rather than a disqualification from the race. He explained, “I don’t look at this as a liability. I look at this as a life that I have lived, a journey that has been difficult, that has been full of struggle, that has also gotten me to where I am today.”

Furthermore, he suggested that the focus on the tattoo detracts from discussing significant policy issues, specifically mentioning Medicare for All. He remarked, “Every second we spend talking about a tattoo I got in the Marine Corps is a second we don’t talk about Medicare for All.”

Remaining in the Race

As Platner continues his campaign, he faces a crowded Democratic primary field that includes Wood and the two-term Governor of Maine, Janet Mills. With Senator Susan Collins currently in office for three decades, her response to Platner’s situation remains unvoiced.

Both Collins and Sanders have not provided immediate comments on the incident as the political landscape evolves.

In this pivotal phase of the race, how Platner addresses this controversy could significantly impact his political future and the perception of his candidacy among voters.

This report incorporates contributions from the Associated Press.