Time Magazine Faces Backlash Over Graham Platner Cover Story

Time magazine is facing criticism over its cover story featuring Graham Platner, a controversial Democratic candidate for the U.S. Senate. The June 8 issue includes a photo of Platner with the headline, “Party Crasher: The rise of scandal-plagued Democrat Graham Platner.”

On the social media platform X, Time stated, “TIME’s new cover: Even in this antiestablishment political moment, Graham Platner’s rise has been remarkable. His candidacy is forcing the party to come to terms with what it’s willing to risk in exchange for a fighter.”

Platner’s campaign has been overshadowed by several controversies. These include revelations of a tattoo linked to Nazi symbolism. Deleted posts from Platner’s alleged Reddit account reportedly contain vulgar comments, self-descriptions as a “communist” and “socialist,” and mockery of a wounded Purple Heart U.S. soldier.

“So Donald Trump was Hitler, and all of us Nazis, for a rally at Madison Square Garden. But the far-left candidate with a Nazi tattoo is celebrated,” commented Elizabeth Pipko, a former Trump campaign spokesperson on X.

The Time article describes Platner as an outsider who appeals to Democratic voters seeking a new national figure. It notes his challenges, including controversial tattoos, a DUI record, and hostile Reddit posts.

Conservative critics on X compared this to Time’s historical decisions, such as naming Adolf Hitler “Man of the Year” in 1938. Several reactions highlighted the irony of a candidate with a Nazi tattoo being featured on Time’s cover.

Platner has emerged as the Democrats’ presumptive nominee after his primary opponent, Gov. Janet Mills, withdrew following poor polling and fundraising results. If successful in the primary, Platner will challenge Republican Sen. Susan Collins in a pivotal race that could affect Senate control.

Time and Platner did not respond immediately to requests for comment. For more, visit Fox News Digital.