PORTLAND, Maine — Democratic Senate candidate Graham Platner is disputing allegations reported by The New York Times involving his conduct in past relationships, while acknowledging personal struggles during a difficult period following his military service.
The allegations were detailed in a report published Thursday that included accounts from former romantic partners. One woman, Lyndsey Fifield, who dated Platner from 2013 to 2015, alleged that he sometimes discussed violence and could be physically rough. However, she reportedly stated that he never hit or punched her.
Speaking on MSNBC’s All In with Chris Hayes, Platner denied claims that he was physically aggressive. When asked directly about allegations that he grabbed or pushed Fifield, Platner responded, “That is not true.” He also rejected claims that he knew his now-covered-up tattoo resembled a Nazi symbol before controversy surrounding it emerged last year.
Platner acknowledged what he described as mistakes during what he called a “dark period” after returning from combat service, including issues involving alcohol. He said he has spoken openly about those challenges during his campaign and accepts responsibility for aspects of his past behavior, but maintains that the most serious allegations are false.
The controversy comes as Platner seeks to unseat Republican Sen. Susan Collins in one of the nation’s most closely watched Senate races. Democrats view the Maine contest as a potential opportunity to gain a key Senate seat in the 2026 midterm elections.
Despite recent scrutiny over his personal life, including reports involving consensual text messages sent while married, Platner said he has not considered leaving the race.
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