Controversy erupts in Maine Senate race over candidate’s deleted online remarks

Graham Platner, a Democratic candidate for the U.S. Senate in Maine, is facing mounting criticism after a series of deleted Reddit posts resurfaced, revealing controversial statements made before his campaign launch.

Platner, a former Marine and oyster farmer, had previously posted remarks online identifying himself as a "communist," labeling "all police as bastards," and claiming that "rural White Americans are racist and stupid." These posts were reportedly removed shortly before he announced his candidacy, raising questions about transparency and political strategy.

The revelations were brought to light by a CNN KFile investigation, which examined Platner’s online history and its potential impact on the 2026 Maine Senate race. The controversy has prompted responses from national organizations, including EMILY's List, whose president, Jessica Mackler, condemned the remarks and emphasized the importance of electing candidates who can defeat Republican incumbent Susan Collins.

Platner’s campaign has not yet issued a formal response. However, political analysts suggest that the timing and nature of the deleted posts could influence voter sentiment, especially in Maine’s more conservative districts. The incident underscores the growing scrutiny of digital footprints in modern political campaigns and raises broader questions about accountability and ideological clarity.