Democratic U.S. Senate candidate Graham Platner is fighting calls to quit after The New York Times and The Wall Street Journal reported a series of personal controversies, including a Nazi‑like tattoo, toxic‑relationship accusations, and explicit messages to women. The Maine primary is days away, and Platner says the attacks are politically motivated attempts to derail his progressive campaign against incumbent Sen. Susan Collins .

Platner’s Nazi‑style skull tattoo resurfaces from 2007

When Platner announced his Senate bid as a combat veteran‑turned oyster farmer, a skull‑and‑crossbones tattoo on his arm drew scrutiny.. He told Maine Public he was unaware the design resembled an SS symbol and that he received it while drunk with fellow Marines in 2007. the tattoo,which he has not removed,has become a focal point for critics demanding he step aside.

Ex‑partner Lyndsey Fifield alleges toxic behavior and a locked‑room incident

The New York Times article cited Fifield, a former Republican campaign worker, who described Platner as “toxic” and recounted an episode where he allegedly locked her in a room until she calmed down. Platner denied ever dating Fifield and called the claims “not true,” according to his interview with Maine Public. Fifield posted on X that Washington’s culture must change, emphasizing the need for victims to speak up.

Explicit messages to multiple women reported by the Wall Street Journal

In early 2025, the Wall Street Journal reported that Platner, who is married to Amy Gertner, exchanged sexually explicit texts with several women. Gertner has publicly defended her husbaand and their marriage, echoing Platner’s stance that the revelations are partisan attacks rather than personal failings.

Sen. Susan Collins’ campaign stays silent as the controversy heats up

Despite the mounting pressure, Collins’ team did not respond to Maine Public’s request for comment, leaving the incumbent’s strategy unclear. The race is viewed as a bellwether for Senate control, with Democrats needing a win in Maine to tip the balance in Washington.

What remains unclear about Platner’s past and its political impact

Key unanswered points include whether any formal investigations will be launched into the alleged misconduct, how Platner’s mental‑health disclosures will affect voter perception , and if the Democratic National Committee will officially back his candidacy amid the scandal. As the primary approaches, these questions will shape the narrative in the final weeks before the general election.