In a Thursday appearance on MS NOW’s "All In" with Chris Hayes, Maine U.S. Senate hopeful Graham Platner denied a series of accusations from his former girlfriend, including physical abuse and knowledge of a Nazi‑linked tattoo. the claims, first reported by The New York Times, were dismissed by Platner as a political smear campaign.

New York Times Report Details Physical Abuse Allegations

According to the New York Times article read by Hayes, Platner allegedly grabbed his ex‑girlfriend by the shoulders hard enough to leave marks, yanked her out of a cab by her wrist, twisted her arm behind her back, shoved her into a bedroom, and held a door closed from the outside. Platner categorically denied each of these specific incidents, labeling them false.

Platner’s Confession of a Dark Post‑Combat Period

During the interview, Platner admitted that he was not a good boyfriend during a difficult period after his combat service and that he self‑medicated with alcohol. He acknowledged his shortcomings but insisted that the physical allegations and the tattoo knowledge were untrue.

Clarifying the Skull and Crossbones Tattoo

Platner explained that the skull and crossbones tattoo was earned with fellow Marines while serving in Iraq and Croatia, and that he had worn it for 17 years without knowing its Nazi association. He noted that he passed security clearances and was screened for hate tattoos when re‑enlisting in the Army.. Platner said he first learned the tattoo’s meaning in October of last year.

Political Context and Campaign Implications

The interview highlighted the sharp contrast between Platner’s admissions of personal flaws and his firm denials of the more serious allegations. As the election approaches, voters in Maine will have to weigh these claims against his military record and campaign platform.

Who Is the Anonymous Source?

Platner suggested that the anonymous acquaintance cited in Jewish Insider, who claimed he used the term "Totenkopf," is likely the same source as his ex‑gilfriend, implying a single origin for the accusations.