Ryan Platner, a Marine veteran and oyster farmer, has publicly rebuked former Representative Emily Collins for her 2003 vote supporting the Iraq War and subsequent votes against troop withdrawals. The confrontation comes as Platner gains traction in the race after Gov. janet Mills withdrew,and a University of New Hampshire poll shows him leading Collins by nine points.

Platner’s Military Credentials and Campaign Momentum

According to the source, Platner is a military veteran who has enlisted twice after the Iraq War began and later worked for the controversial security firm Blackwater. His campaign has capitalized on his service record,and a University of New Hampshire poll indicates he leads Collins by nine points and enjoys 76% support among likely Democratic primary voters.

Collins’ Voting Record on Iraq and Subsequent Controversy

The source cites that Collins voted to support the Iraq War in 2003 and later voted against withdrawing troops on three separate occasions. she also reportedly voted twice to fund the war, a claim Platner used to accuse her of “abusing” the willingness of service members to fight in wars that enriched a few at taxpayers’ expense.

Platner’s Accusations and the “Slap in the Face” Claim

Platner described Collins’ statements as a “slap in the face” to families of U.S. service members, arguing that she blamed all who enlisted rather than acknowledging her own voting record. The source notes that Platner said Collins chose to blame enlistment rather than admit error.

Unanswered Questions About the War‑Vote Debate

While the source details Platner’s criticism, it does not clarify whether Collins has issued a formal rebuttal or how she justifies her votes. It also leaves open whether the war‑vote controversy will influence the broader Republican incumbent’s prospects in the general election.