Maine Senate Candidate Graham Platner Advocates Progressive Change

Graham Platner, a candidate for the Maine Senate, joined Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., at a rally in Portland on Monday. Platner, the Democratic frontrunner looking to challenge Republican Sen. Susan Collins, emphasized common themes with Sanders. He criticized Collins’ long tenure and the U.S. military budget, particularly funds used in conflicts involving Gaza and Iran.

The rally, named the “Fighting Oligarchy” event, was hosted by Sanders to inspire progressive activists and bolster grassroots organizing. This Portland gathering was one of several stops in Maine alongside Platner and gubernatorial hopeful Troy Jackson.

Platner focused on anti-corporate messages, urging the crowd to contribute to a “political revolution.” He stated, “We are reclaiming what belongs to us from corporations prioritizing profit over people, from billionaires driven by greed, and from politicians like Susan Collins who have betrayed us.”

“It is a system that is the politics of Susan Collins, a politics that turns politicians into millionaires, but tells you to be grateful for crumbs.”

Through the evening, Platner echoed Sanders’ economic perspectives. He accused health insurance executives of benefiting at the expense of the public’s welfare.

On Middle Eastern affairs, Platner criticized how American funds are used abroad, saying, “Our tax dollars should fund schools and hospitals here rather than bombs in Gaza and Iran.”

Sanders expressed that Platner’s election could significantly impact the progressive movement. He remarked, “Electing Graham Platner as senator will transform America.” Sanders praised Platner’s support for his proposed wealth tax targeting billionaires, labeling it a crucial aspect of their shared agenda.

The Vermont senator highlighted a legislative proposal for a 5% wealth tax targeting 938 U.S. billionaires, suggesting that Platner would support this effort. He described Platner as an ally against powerful tech figures like Elon Musk and Mark Zuckerberg. Sanders warned against a scenario where “a handful of billionaires” could dominate artificial intelligence and robotics in the future.