Several women who previously dated Senate candidate Graham Platner have come forward to The New York Times, alleging that reports of the Maine Democrat's offensive online posts and infidelity reflect volatile behavior they experienced during their relationships with him.
Accounts of Unsettling Behavior
The Times interviewed over two dozen individuals for the story, including six women who confirmed they had dated Platner. Among them, three who were in long-term relationships described what they termed as unsettling conduct. This included demeaning remarks toward women, infidelity, excessive alcohol consumption, and, in one instance, physically threatening behavior.
Specific Allegations
- A woman who works on Republican campaigns characterized Platner as abusive and cavalierly contemptuous of women's emotions.
- A Maine liberal noted that she recognized a version of him she had experienced when she saw his old posts.
- A third woman, also a Maine Democrat, expressed feeling like collateral damage in the world that revolves around him.
Campaign Response
In a statement to the Times, Platner's campaign acknowledged that the oyster farmer and combat veteran was in a dark place during those relationships, a rationale he has used for other controversies, including his old posts and a Nazi symbol tattoo. The campaign added that he was a far from perfect boyfriend.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
If you or someone you know needs help, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233).
