Time magazine’s recent cover story on Democratic U.S. Senate candidate Graham Platner has attracted criticism. The June 8 issue features Platner, a Democrat competing in Maine’s Senate primary, with the headline, “Party Crasher: The rise of scandal-plagued Democrat Graham Platner.”
Time described Platner’s candidacy as remarkable in an anti-establishment political context. The magazine noted his campaign forces the party to confront what risks they are willing to take for a candidate deemed a fighter.
Platner has been involved in various controversies. These include having a tattoo recognized as a Nazi symbol. Additionally, posts from his former Reddit account included vulgar sexual comments. He also described himself as a “communist” and “socialist” and mocked a Purple Heart soldier.
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Time’s article portrayed Platner as an unpolished outsider who could become a “new national star” for voters. However, he carries significant baggage, including a DUI during a heavy drinking period and several hostile Reddit posts.
After Time published the story, conservatives criticized it online. Former Trump campaign spokesperson Elizabeth Pipko questioned the portrayal, pointing out how previous comparisons labeled Trump and his supporters with Nazi associations.
Stephen L. Miller, a conservative commentator, stated that Platner is not the first person with a controversial symbol to appear on Time’s cover.
The magazine’s history of naming Adolf Hitler as “Man of the Year” in 1938 was also referenced by other users. Furthermore, a Fox News contributor commented on this editorial decision.
Time and Platner did not respond to Fox News Digital’s request for comment. Platner became the likely Democratic nominee after his opponent, Gov. Janet Mills, ended her campaign.
If Platner wins the primary, he will face Republican Sen. Susan Collins in a closely watched race that could influence the Senate power balance.
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