Sen. Bernie Sanders Defends Graham Platner Amid Controversy

Senator Bernie Sanders of Vermont supports Senate candidate Graham Platner after reports surfaced about Platner exchanging sexually explicit texts at the start of his marriage. Sanders, who endorsed Platner against GOP Senator Susan Collins in Maine, highlighted larger issues facing working families, such as housing, healthcare, and fuel costs. He emphasized the need to focus on these challenges rather than Platner’s personal life.

Sanders said, “I wish their marriage the best, but our priority should be addressing the crises that impact working-class families and electing those who challenge the oligarchs dominating our nation.” Platner’s wife, Amy Gertner, stands by him, despite being “really angry” about the text message reports, referring to the situation as a distraction from the campaign’s core issues.

According to sources cited by the New York Times and The Wall Street Journal, Gertner informed Platner’s campaign about the texts at the start of his Senate run. Platner admitted to sending the texts and expressed gratitude to his wife for working through the issue with him. Platner stated, “This campaign is about transformative ideas for Maine. Our opponents want politics lacking in substance and change.” After counseling, Gertner remarked their marriage is “great.”

Senator Ruben Gallego of Arizona also spoke in defense of Platner, emphasizing Platner’s transparent approach and growth. Gallego argued that voters prioritize economic issues such as high gas and food prices over past personal matters.

Senator Martin Heinrich of New Mexico dismissed the reports as “a tabloid story” irrelevant to voters in Maine, who he believes will focus on candidates supporting working-class interests. Heinrich, who has a rapport with both Platner and Gertner, reiterated that the matter is personal.

The day before Platner’s scheduled meeting with Senate Democrats, additional support came from national progressives, including Senator Elizabeth Warren and Representative Ro Khanna. Although Platner previously faced controversy over past Reddit posts and a controversial tattoo, he remains favored by Democratic voters in Maine. Governor Janet Mills suspended her campaign for the Senate in April but clarified she is still on the ballot.

Reacting to the ongoing discussions, Senator Collins of Maine stated, “I have no comments. Every day brings new revelations about Graham Platner that reflect on his character.”