Maine Senate Candidate Faces Backlash Over Controversial Tattoo
Graham Platner, a Democratic candidate vying for Maine’s U.S. Senate seat, is under fire after a decades-old tattoo resembling a Nazi symbol resurfaced online. In a candid interview on the popular political podcast Pod Save America, aired Tuesday, October 22, 2025, Platner apologized and pledged to have the tattoo removed.
What the Tattoo Represents—and Why It Matters
The tattoo in question features a skull and crossbones design that closely mirrors the insignia used by the Totenkopf units of Nazi Germany’s SS. While skull motifs are common in military culture, this specific design has strong historical ties to one of the most notorious paramilitary organizations in history.
Platner, a Marine veteran and oyster farmer from Frenchman Bay, Maine, claimed he got the tattoo in 2007 while stationed in Split, Croatia. “I was drunk, and we picked a terrifying-looking skull and crossbones off the wall,” he explained on the podcast. “Skulls and crossbones are a pretty standard military thing.”
He emphasized that he was unaware of the symbol’s extremist connotations at the time and insisted, “I am not a secret Nazi.” Platner added that he has been a lifelong opponent of antisemitism and Nazism.
Old Reddit Posts Add to the Controversy
The tattoo isn’t the only issue dogging Platner’s campaign. Reporters have also uncovered a series of old Reddit comments in which he downplayed the seriousness of sexual assault in the military and criticized both law enforcement and white rural Americans.
While Platner hasn’t directly addressed each post, his campaign has issued a statement distancing him from those views, calling them “immature remarks made years ago that do not reflect who I am today.”
Political Fallout in a Key Senate Race
Platner is challenging Republican incumbent Senator Susan Collins, who has held the seat since 1997. With Maine’s Senate race considered a potential pickup opportunity for Democrats in the 2026 midterms, the controversy could complicate Platner’s path to the ballot.
Political opponents have already begun circulating the decade-old video clip—featured on Pod Save America—showing Platner dancing shirtless at his brother’s wedding, the tattoo clearly visible as he lip-syncs to a Miley Cyrus song.
Public Reaction and Path Forward
Reactions on social media have been mixed. Some supporters praised Platner for his transparency and willingness to take accountability. Others questioned his judgment and fitness for public office.
Platner says he plans to visit a tattoo removal clinic “as soon as possible” and is committed to engaging with Maine voters about his record, values, and vision for the state.
Timeline of Events
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 2007 | Platner gets tattoo in Split, Croatia, while serving as a Marine. |
| ~2015 | Shirtless wedding video recorded; tattoo visible. |
| Unknown | Controversial Reddit posts published under pseudonym. |
| 2025 | Platner announces Senate run; tattoo and posts resurface. |
| Oct 22, 2025 | Platner apologizes publicly on Pod Save America. |
