How Party Leaders Pick Their Battles in Close Races

Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer didn’t mince words this week when he stood before reporters. “We have our pick in Maine, ” he declared, naming Graham Platner as the party’s top Senate candidate even though Platner’s campaign has faced one controversy after another. Just days ahead of Maine’s June 9 primary, Platner—who once served in the Marines and ran an oyster business—is now the favorite to challenge Republican Senator Susan Collins in November. For Democrats aiming to flip the Senate, this race isn’t just important; it’s one of the fights they can’t afford to lose. Right now, Republicans hold 53 seats compared to Democrats’ 47, so every spot matters.But Platner’s road to the nomination hasn’t been smooth. Reports surfaced that he sent explicit messages to multiple women, adding to earlier troubles like old online posts and a tattoo that looked like a Nazi symbol. Platner has apologized for the messages and says he didn’t realize his tattoo’s meaning—he even covered it up. His campaign hasn’t answered questions about the latest accusations. Meanwhile, his biggest rival, Governor Janet Mills, dropped out in April but may still appear on the ballot because her name wasn’t removed in time. Schumer originally supported Mills, but now he’s fully behind Platner. Platner skipped the press event but made sure to pack his Washington schedule with fundraisers, according to Politico. The question now is whether voters will focus on Platner’s military background and working-class roots or the pattern of missteps that keeps popping up. Democrats clearly believe he’s their best shot at unseating Collins, but not everyone is convinced the gamble will pay off.