Graham Platner, the Democratic presumptive nominee for Senate in Maine, is under scrutiny after resurfaced Reddit posts revealed his harsh criticism of the United States Army and its soldiers. In posts from 2019, Platner described the Army as 'absolute trash' and claimed it was 'full of fat, lazy trash who would rather not be in uniform.' He contrasted this with his more favorable view of the Marine Corps, where he previously served, stating that the Army lacks the 'warrior ethos and leadership obsession' found in the Corps and generally attracts a 'lower standard of person' [1].
Platner's comments extended to wounded Army veteran Teddy Daniels, whom he criticized for his battlefield tactics and said the 'dumb motherf---er didn’t deserve to live,' despite Daniels having been shot by the Taliban and awarded the Purple Heart [1]. The posts, made under the Reddit account 'P-Hustle' which Platner has acknowledged as his, also included slurs, derogatory remarks about white rural Americans, and self-identification as a Marxist. These revelations have become a significant campaign issue as Platner seeks to unseat Republican incumbent Senator Susan Collins [1].
While Platner did acknowledge some positive aspects of the Army, such as 'solid light infantry, reconnaissance, and SOF units' and access to 'great schools,' the overall tone of his posts was highly critical. He also emphasized the importance of internal criticism within the armed forces, stating, 'WE have a duty to be brutally honest' [1].
Platner has since apologized for his comments, saying in October, 'I’m sorry for this. Just know that it’s not reflective at all of who I am. I don’t want you to judge me on the dumbest thing I ever wrote on the internet. I would prefer if people could judge me on the person I am today' [1]. The controversy, first reported by The Washington Free Beacon, has sparked debate about Platner's character and suitability for office [1].
CONCLUSION
The resurfacing of Graham Platner's derogatory comments about Army soldiers has become a central issue in the Maine Senate race, raising questions about his judgment and temperament. Platner's apology has not quelled the controversy, which could impact his campaign against incumbent Senator Susan Collins.