SOUND THE ALARM: Graham Platner Says Sexual Assault Victims Should “Take Some Responsibility” in Now-Deleted Reddit Posts
Maine U.S. Senate candidate Graham Platner made disturbing comments about sexual assault victims in Reddit posts that were deleted shortly before he launched his campaign — saying assault victims should “just take some responsibility for themselves” to avoid attacks and “act like an adult for f–cks sake.” He said people should avoid alcohol so they don’t end up in a “compromising situation” and downplayed the challenges servicemembers face in reporting sexual assault.
These resurfaced comments come on the heels of similar Reddit posts that were uncovered this week, which include Platner:
- Saying people who live in rural Maine “actually are” racist and stupid.
- Promoting violent political action, including saying, “An armed working class is a requirement for economic justice.”
- Deeming “all” police bastards and writing “F**k these cops.”
- Promoting racist stereotypes by questioning, “Why don’t Black people tip?”
- Using slurs and telling people to “F**k off and die” when asked about a recent vote against a power line in Maine.
EMILYs List President Jessica Mackler released the following statement:
“Graham Platner’s comments blaming victims of sexual assault are unacceptable and disqualifying. They’re also the fastest way to hand Susan Collins a victory, should Platner advance in this race. In the past 24 hours alone, we have learned that Platner blamed victims for sexual assault, called the Maine voters he is seeking to represent “racist” and “stupid,” and promoted violent political action. Taking back control of the Senate relies on winning this seat and the stakes are much too high. We cannot afford to put that responsibility in the hands of this man. It is clear that Janet Mills — with a proven record of winning elections and delivering for Maine — is the only candidate who can beat Susan Collins and flip this seat.”
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