Fetterman calls Platner a ‘creep’ after reports of extramarital sexting

Fetterman Criticizes Platner Over Sexting Scandal in Maine Senate Race

Fetterman calls Platner a creep after – Sen. John Fetterman has taken a pointed stance against Graham Platner, the leading Democratic candidate in Maine’s Senate race, following allegations that the candidate engaged in extramarital sexting. The Pennsylvania Democrat’s comments came during a Tuesday interview with CNN, where he highlighted the controversy surrounding Platner’s personal conduct and social media history. The scandal has sparked significant debate within the Democratic Party, as Platner faces scrutiny over his past actions while vying to reclaim the Senate seat currently held by Susan Collins.

Fetterman’s criticism extended beyond the sexting accusations, targeting Platner’s social media presence. He cited a now-infamous tattoo that resembles a Nazi symbol, suggesting it reflects Platner’s alleged sympathies. “If someone had a clear Nazi tattoo on them, you could reasonably conclude they’re a Nazi sympathizer,” Fetterman said, emphasizing the symbolic weight of the design. Platner, who has apologized for his past posts, described the tattoo as a simple image with no deeper meaning. He later covered it up, though the visual remains a focal point of the controversy.

“Are you going to continue to defend that or dismiss that?” Fetterman asked during the interview, referencing Platner’s social media history. The senator’s remarks underscored a broader tension within the party, as some members hesitated to openly condemn their top candidate.

The scandal has intensified as Democrats navigate a competitive race. While Platner’s wife, Amy Gertner, expressed distress over the publicized messages, she claimed her husband had not intended any harm. In a statement released Saturday, she accused a former campaign aide of leaking details about her husband’s texts to other women. The revelation has raised questions about the integrity of Platner’s campaign and its handling of private communications.

Fetterman’s attack on Platner also included a jab at his Kik account, which reportedly used the username “phustle0331.” The senator mocked the handle, asking, “What kind of a creep has been on a platform like Kik and sent a dozen explicit messages?” The account, verified by CNN, featured a profile photo of Platner shirtless in a bathroom, with a towel draped around his waist. The username echoed those from his now-deleted Reddit and Instagram accounts, suggesting a deliberate attempt to maintain a consistent online persona.

Platner’s meeting with Senate Democrats in Washington, DC, on Tuesday afternoon highlighted the internal divide. While some senators, like Independent Bernie Sanders, dismissed the scandal as inconsequential, others expressed concern. Sanders, who caucuses with Democrats, remarked, “Why do the richest people in this country want to defeat Graham Platner? That should tell you everything you need to know, because he’s gonna stand up for working people, is he a saint? I guess not. I don’t know too many saints here.”

Meanwhile, Sens. Kirsten Gillibrand, Peter Welch, Elizabeth Warren, and Adam Schiff were seen entering the Democrats’ campaign headquarters, where Platner participated in a meeting. Gillibrand, who chairs the campaign committee, stated the session was “productive” and “good,” though she did not address the scandal directly. Platner, however, did not engage with reporters during his exit from the building, leaving his comments unclear.

As the Democratic Party grapples with the fallout, Fetterman’s sharp critique has amplified the pressure on Platner. The Pennsylvania senator, known for his populist appeal, contrasted Platner’s image with that of Maine Gov. Janet Mills, who suspended her primary campaign due to financial constraints. “It seems like the only thing wrong with her is she happens to be 78,” Fetterman remarked, positioning Mills as a positive example of Democratic commitment.

Platner, who has been vocal in his criticism of Fetterman, called the Pennsylvania senator the “bane of my existence.” He rejected comparisons to Fetterman, who ran as an outsider in his 2022 race, arguing that his own campaign is distinct. Despite the backlash, Platner’s team has not yet announced any plans to withdraw from the race, though Fetterman hinted at potential support for Mills if she becomes the Democratic nominee.

CNN has not independently confirmed the existence of the text messages, but the network verified that a Kik account with the username “phustle0331” is linked to Platner. The account’s profile photo and handle reflect a pattern of online activity that has drawn attention to his personal life. The senator’s wife, Amy Gertner, had earlier flagged the messages to campaign staff, revealing that the affair was not entirely public knowledge until recent reports surfaced.

With the Senate race in Maine now a pivotal contest for Democrats, the scandal has forced candidates to reassess their strategies. Fetterman’s public rebuke of Platner has not only highlighted the candidate’s personal conduct but also raised concerns about the Democratic Party’s unity. While some senators, like Schumer, have expressed confidence in Platner’s ability to defeat Collins, others remain wary of the implications of his past behavior.

As the campaign season progresses, the focus will likely shift to how Platner’s team handles the narrative. His campaign has been quick to respond to criticism, but the ongoing scrutiny may challenge his viability as the party’s nominee. For now, the debate continues, with Fetterman’s remarks serving as a reminder of the high stakes involved in the race to regain Senate control.