Graham Platner Joins Bernie Sanders in Rally Targeting Susan Collins

Maine Senate candidate Graham Platner shared the stage with Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., Monday. The event emphasized progressive themes and criticized Republican Sen. Susan Collins, weapons spending related to Gaza and Iran.

Platner, the Democratic nominee, aims to unseat Collins. He spoke at a “Fighting Oligarchy” rally in Portland, led by Sanders, to mobilize progressives and boost grassroots efforts before the midterm elections. This rally was part of Sanders’ stops in Maine, accompanied by Platner and gubernatorial candidate Troy Jackson.

Platner’s speech focused on anti-corporate rhetoric, urging the crowd to form a “political revolution.” He declared, “We are taking back what is ours.” He criticized corporations focused on profit and politicians like Susan Collins, whom he accused of corruption.

“It is a system that is the politics of Susan Collins,” Platner stated, “a politics that turns politicians into millionaires, but tells you to be grateful for crumbs.”

Throughout his speech, Platner echoed Sanders’ economic views, accusing health insurance executives of profiting at the expense of the public’s hardships.

Regarding foreign policy, Platner criticized American spending in the Middle East. He argued that tax dollars should build schools and hospitals rather than contribute to conflict in Gaza and Iran.

Sanders emphasized Platner’s importance for the progressive movement. “You elect Graham Platner senator,” Sanders urged, “you’re going to transform America.” He related Platner to his tax proposals aimed at the ultra-wealthy, including a new wealth tax.

Sanders stated, “I introduced legislation, which Graham will be by my side in fighting for, which says that we are going to impose a 5% annual wealth tax on 938 billionaires in America.” The legislation, proposed earlier this year, targets top billionaires in the U.S.

Platner is positioned as an ally against major tech billionaires like Elon Musk and Mark Zuckerberg. Sanders warned against a small group of billionaires controlling AI and robotics development.

“Graham understands… we are not going to let a handful of billionaires control the future of this country,” Sanders concluded.