Massachusetts Representative Says He Would Not Vote for Maine Senate Nominee

Rep. Jake Auchincloss, a Massachusetts Democrat, said on CNN Monday that he hoped Maine voters would reject Graham Platner, the state's presumptive Democratic nominee for Senate, citing a tattoo he called personally disqualifying. Susan Collins. By Tuesday afternoon, the congressman posted on X that his remarks were not an endorsement of Collins.

Platner has built support through direct outreach to voters and community groups across Maine. Sen. Bernie Sanders hosted two campaign events for Platner over the Memorial Day weekend. Rep. Ro Khanna is scheduled to appear in Maine on June 5 in support of the nominee.

Party Reactions National Democratic leaders including Sen. Chuck Schumer and Sen.

Kirsten Gillibrand have pledged support for Platner. Some centrist Democrats have expressed reservations about the nominee. Shannon Watts posted on social media Tuesday comparing objections to Platner with criticism of the Uncommitted movement. Melissa DeRosa told Fox News that some moderate Democrats would not be upset if Collins retained the seat.

Sen. John Fetterman and former Sen. Joe Manchin have also voiced concerns about Platner's nomination. State Democrats are expected to unify behind the nominee after the primary.