The Democratic Party thought it had found a promising challenger to Republican Sen. Susan Collins in Maine. Instead, Graham Platner is finding himself at the center of a growing controversy that now includes questions about a tattoo linked to Nazi imagery, a public debate over its meaning, and renewed scrutiny of his background.
The issue surfaced during ABC’s “This Week” when former Republican Congressman Pat McHenry argued that Democrats in several races had failed to thoroughly vet some of their candidates before elevating them to prominent campaigns. Pointing specifically to Maine, McHenry cited the controversy surrounding Platner and a tattoo reportedly inspired by the “Totenkopf,” or “Death’s Head,” insignia.
That symbol carries significant historical baggage. The Totenkopf was used by the SS Totenkopfverbände, the Nazi units responsible for operating concentration camps during World War II. Variations of the insignia were also used by Waffen-SS formations, making it one of the most recognizable symbols associated with the Third Reich.
As McHenry raised the issue, Bernie Sanders adviser and former 2020 campaign manager Faiz Shakir quickly pushed back.
“A tattoo that was skull and crossbones, not a Nazi tattoo,” Shakir interjected.
McHenry was unconvinced.
“OK, we can quibble about whether or not how Nazi the Nazi tattoo,” he replied, before arguing that the broader controversy reflects larger concerns voters may have about the candidate.
The exchange highlighted the central dispute surrounding the tattoo. Critics argue that imagery associated with the Totenkopf cannot be separated from its historical use by Nazi organizations. Defenders maintain that the design should not automatically be interpreted as an endorsement of Nazi ideology and characterize it as a skull-and-crossbones image rather than a political statement.
The controversy arrives at a difficult time for Platner, who recently became the presumptive Democratic nominee after Maine Gov. Janet Mills suspended her Senate campaign. Instead of focusing solely on policy or fundraising, Platner has spent recent weeks answering questions about past behavior and social media activity.
Reports have also drawn attention to other incidents from his past, including criticism over remarks involving a wounded American serviceman and explicit posts made on social media. Together, those issues have fueled concerns among some observers that Democrats may face a more complicated race than initially expected.
Despite the growing scrutiny, Platner continues to enjoy support from prominent progressive figures, including Sanders and other left-wing allies. That backing suggests Democratic leaders remain committed to his candidacy even as Republicans work to make the tattoo controversy a central issue in the campaign.
