Maine Democratic Primary Heats Up: Mills vs. Platner

Gov. Janet Mills' campaign released an ad criticizing rival Graham Platner for past social media comments, intensifying their primary battle. Platner apologized, attributing his actions to mental health struggles. The race highlights the conflict between political insiders and populist movements, with key endorsements on both sides.

The Democratic primary race in Maine has intensified as Gov. Janet Mills released an advertisement targeting her opponent, Graham Platner, over controversial past social media comments. This comes as both vie for the Democratic nomination to challenge Republican Sen. Susan Collins.

Mills' campaign video involves women reading Platner's old posts that made dismissive remarks about sexual assault. Platner, who has previously apologized for those posts citing mental health struggles post-military service, described the attack ad as a desperate political maneuver.

The contest pits Mills, a seasoned political figure, against Platner, a younger candidate with a populist message endorsed by figures like Sen. Bernie Sanders. Meanwhile, Platner faces criticism over a controversial tattoo linked to neo-Nazi symbols, adding further complexity to the race.

(With inputs from agencies.)