Jake Auchincloss is publicly distancing himself from Democratic Senate candidate Graham Platner, saying a controversial tattoo and related comments make him unfit for office.
During an interview with CNN, Auchincloss said he viewed the tattoo and Platner’s explanation surrounding it as “personally disqualifying.” The Massachusetts congressman, who is Jewish, said he hoped Maine voters would take the concerns seriously and argued that Platner does not represent the type of Democratic leadership needed to build long-term national support.
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Platner has said the tattoo, which critics argued resembled a Nazi-era Totenkopf symbol, was covered after he learned about the historical association. He stated previously that he was unaware of the symbol’s connection to Nazi Germany and denied intentionally displaying extremist imagery. Platner also said he planned to have the tattoo removed.
The candidate has additionally faced scrutiny over old online posts tied to a deleted Reddit account he acknowledged owning. Some of the posts included controversial political language and anti-police comments. Platner later said the remarks were made years ago and were intended to provoke reactions rather than reflect his actual beliefs.
Despite the controversy, Platner is still considered a leading contender in Maine’s Democratic Senate primary. He is expected to challenge incumbent Senator Susan Collins in the general election if he secures the nomination. The race is being closely watched nationally because it could influence control of the U.S. Senate.
Auchincloss said he would not support a candidate solely for partisan reasons, emphasizing that “values and principles” should come before party loyalty. His comments drew criticism from some Democrats, including Saikat Chakrabarti, who accused him of undermining Democratic efforts in a key battleground race.
Benjamin Harris is a RapidReports front page contributor and editor,proud father of four.
