Main Character of Tuesday, June 9, 2026

Graham Platner is a Democratic candidate for U.S. Senate in Maine, working as an oysterman. On June 9, 2026, he was at the center of attention as Maine held its Democratic primary election for the Senate seat currently held by Republican incumbent Susan Collins. Platner was poised to win the party's nomination despite multiple controversies that had emerged in the weeks preceding the primary.

In early June, The New York Times published allegations against Platner involving a Nazi symbol tattoo and conduct toward women, triggering a sharp backlash within Democratic circles. The revelations prompted concern among party officials and voters about how the scandals might affect his viability in the general election against Collins. Some Democrats expressed hope that a significant protest vote would emerge in the primary, while others remained anxious about the impact of recent disclosures on their general election prospects.

Despite the controversies, Platner maintained substantial support among Maine Democrats heading into the June 9 primary. While some voters and party members soured on him or expressed support "with trepidation," many continued backing his campaign. Senator Brian Schatz signaled preliminary support by scheduling an appearance at a virtual donor event. The outcome of the primary would serve as an early test of whether Platner's remaining base of support could withstand the mounting scrutiny.