Ro Khanna Says Recent Platner Scandal Not a Shock to Maine Voters
Ro Khanna says latest Platner accusations – Democratic Representative Ro Khanna of California addressed the latest controversy surrounding Graham Platner, the Democratic Senate candidate from Maine, during an appearance on CBS News’s Face the Nation on Sunday. Khanna acknowledged that the allegations against Platner had not caught voters in the Pine Tree State off guard, despite the recent surge in media attention. His remarks came as part of a broader discussion about the candidate’s personal conduct and its implications for his campaign.
During the interview, host Margaret Brennan focused on Platner, who is backed by Khanna. Brennan referenced a New York Times report in which former girlfriends of the progressive candidate described their experiences with him, offering a spectrum of perspectives ranging from admiration to criticism. Some called him caring, while others labeled him “toxic.” Khanna, however, emphasized that the allegations had been anticipated by many in the state.
“People in Maine knew that he had two tours of duty in Iraq,” Khanna said. “He came back broken and in a dark place. That doesn’t excuse his behavior, but they knew this.”
Khanna’s comments highlighted Platner’s military background, which he described as a significant factor in understanding the candidate’s recent actions. The representative noted that while Platner’s behavior was “shameful,” it was not entirely unexpected, given his history of grappling with psychological challenges. “He had a lot of struggles in his personal life, and those are part of the story,” Khanna added.
Despite the allegations, Khanna praised Platner’s efforts to take responsibility for his actions. He clarified his support for the candidate, stating, “If there was evidence of violence, I would not support him if there was evidence of sexual assault. I’d have zero support for him.” This statement underscored his commitment to accountability while also leaving room for the possibility of further scrutiny.
“I don’t think our side should be attacking her, and I appreciate her courage in coming forward,” Khanna said, responding to Brennan’s question about Lyndsey Fifield, one of Platner’s former partners. “I know some people are saying, ‘Oh, she’s a Republican.’ I think that is irrelevant.”
Fifield’s social media posts had sparked particular debate, including claims that Platner once left an AR-15 rifle in his Washington, D.C., apartment and told her, “If anyone broke in, he’d rape them to show he’s dominant.” Khanna defended her testimony, arguing that her motives were credible and that her political affiliation should not overshadow the validity of her account. The representative also emphasized that the focus should remain on Platner’s campaign and his vision for the state, rather than on the personal accusations.
Khanna reiterated his belief that the scandal reflected a “dark period” in Platner’s life, one that had already been acknowledged by voters he had met. “Maine voters said they don’t like it, but they knew these chapters were part of his journey,” he explained. This acknowledgment suggests that while the allegations are damaging, they are seen as a chapter in Platner’s broader narrative of resilience and growth.
Platner’s campaign has faced mounting pressure ahead of the November election, where he will likely challenge Senator Susan Collins, the Republican incumbent. The controversy has intensified as he addresses past controversies, including his Reddit posts and a tattoo on his chest that some claimed resembled a Nazi symbol. He has since apologized for the posts and attempted to downplay the significance of the tattoo, describing it as a “personal expression” rather than a political statement.
The current scandal, reported by The Wall Street Journal, claims Platner sent sexually explicit text messages to multiple women, which were later discovered by his wife, Amy Gertner. Gertner has publicly supported her husband, calling the news coverage “shameful” and framing it as an overreach by critics. Khanna echoed this sentiment, noting that the candidate’s past statements on social media had resurfaced during a period of personal turmoil, which he described as a “journey through PTSD and darkness.”
“When hurtful things I said on the Internet a decade ago came out into the public as I shared by personal journey through PTSD and darkness of recovery and accountability and growth — Maine had my back,” Platner said, responding to the allegations.
Khanna’s defense of Platner contrasts with the growing criticism he faces from opponents, who argue that the candidate’s actions, while explained as a product of his mental health struggles, still warrant scrutiny. The representative’s comments reflect a strategy to balance accountability with empathy, positioning Platner as a relatable figure despite the controversy.
As the election approaches, the scandal has become a focal point for both sides. Khanna’s support for Platner appears to hinge on the idea that the candidate’s behavior is part of a larger story of redemption. Meanwhile, critics highlight the importance of transparency and the potential impact of the allegations on voter perception. The debate underscores the complex interplay between personal history and political performance in a high-stakes race.
With the stakes rising, Khanna’s role as a vocal advocate for Platner remains central to the campaign’s narrative. His reassurances to voters suggest a belief in the candidate’s ability to overcome past challenges and move forward with a renewed sense of purpose. Whether this perspective resonates with the electorate will ultimately determine the outcome of the November contest.
