Sen. Bernie Sanders voices continued support for Democratic Maine Senate candidate Graham Platner despite media reports alleging he sent sexually explicit messages to women who were not his wife while he was married. Multiple outlets report that Sanders tells reporters he is not reconsidering his endorsement, arguing that there are “no saints” in the U.S. Senate and describing Platner as someone prepared to challenge major political and financial interests. In interviews and remarks covered by outlets, Sanders also acknowledges that Platner has faced controversy, including prior scrutiny of controversial social media posts and a chest tattoo some critics say resembles Nazi insignia, and he frames the current criticism as part of broader personal and political scrutiny rather than grounds to withdraw support.
Other progressive members of Congress who previously endorsed Platner also defend him in response to the reports about the messages. While outlets describe the allegations and the political backlash, they do not identify new legal outcomes or definitive findings in the coverage summarized here. Sanders’ position remains that he stands by Platner while acknowledging the criticisms surrounding him.
