Democratic Candidate Graham Platner Leads Against Incumbent Susan Collins Amid Allegations

Democratic U.S. Senate candidate Graham Platner holds a narrow lead over incumbent Republican Susan Collins according to a recent poll. Platner, a 41-year-old Marine Corps veteran, faces mounting scrutiny following allegations from former romantic partners. He denies these claims, attributing them to political motivations.

Poll Results

A poll by Tavern Research shows Platner with 51 percent compared to Collins’ 49 percent. This survey, conducted from June 5 to June 8 among 1,642 Maine residents, carries a margin of error of 2.8 percent. In a generic poll, a Democratic candidate beats Collins 55 percent to 45 percent. Platner’s favorability stands at 42 percent, while his unfavorable rating is 51 percent. Collins has a similar favorability at 41 percent, with 57 percent unfavorable.

Allegations

Recently, Lyndsey Fifield, a former girlfriend of Platner, accused him of physically threatening behavior over a decade ago. She described an incident where Platner allegedly twisted her arm and blocked her exit during an argument. Fifield clarified that there were no injuries and that Platner never hit or punched her. Fifield later criticized The New York Times on social media, claiming they omitted important context from her account.

A Times spokesperson told Newsweek they stand by their reporting, which included several accounts from women previously involved with Platner.

Campaign Response and Other Polls

During a rally in Bar Harbor, Maine, Platner expressed gratitude toward his supporters. He mentioned past mistakes and personal growth, including struggles with PTSD.

A Public Policy Polling survey found Platner leading Collins by 4 points, 49 percent to 45 percent, with 6 percent undecided. Conducted on June 2 and June 3 with 670 registered Maine voters, the poll has a margin of error of 3.8 percent and was sponsored by Platner.

The University of New Hampshire’s Pine Tree State Poll reported Platner ahead at 51 percent compared to Collins’ 42 percent, with 2 percent choosing another candidate and 6 percent undecided. This poll took place from May 21 to May 25 among 1,280 likely voters, with a 2.7 percent margin of error. Reports about sexually explicit messages from Platner emerged after this poll’s release.