Platner's Lead Reportedly Narrows by 13 Points Amid Controversies

Democratic U.S. Senate candidate Graham Platner has seen his significant lead in the Maine primary reportedly shrink by 13 points in less than a week, according to an internal poll cited by political commentator Swann Marcus. This development follows a series of controversies surrounding Platner's past statements and a tattoo, raising questions about the momentum of his insurgent campaign.

Swann Marcus, a political commentator, highlighted the shift on social media, stating, "I was actually wrong. As this astute poster recognized, Platner went from +34 to +21 despite the pro-Platner nature of this internal GOP push poll." This refers to an earlier University of New Hampshire poll (October 16-21, 2025) that showed Platner leading Governor Janet Mills by 34 points (58% to 24%) among likely Democratic primary voters. The internal GOP poll, however, suggests his lead has narrowed to 21 points.

Platner, an oyster farmer and military veteran, is seeking the Democratic nomination for the 2026 U.S. Senate election in Maine. His campaign has garnered national attention for its populist and anti-establishment message, drawing large crowds and securing an endorsement from Senator Bernie Sanders. However, recent weeks have brought scrutiny over resurfaced Reddit posts containing inflammatory remarks and the revelation of a tattoo resembling a Nazi symbol, which Platner claims he was unaware of its symbolism and has since covered.

The National Republican Senatorial Committee (NRSC) has commented on Platner's controversies, with spokesperson Samantha Cantrell asserting that his "extreme views and troubling past are clearly alienating Democratic primary voters." Platner's campaign, in turn, has dismissed such criticisms as attempts to undermine his candidacy. Governor Mills, a two-term incumbent, has emphasized her extensive experience and track record in Maine state politics.

A "push poll" is a controversial telemarketing technique disguised as a legitimate survey, designed to influence voters by disseminating negative or misleading information about a candidate under the guise of asking questions. These polls are often used to spread damaging narratives rather than to accurately gauge public opinion, and their results are generally viewed with skepticism by professional polling organizations. The Maine Democratic primary is scheduled for June 9, 2026.