Maine Senate Candidate’s Nazi Tattoo Controversy Erupts After Viral Video

A Maine Senate hopeful is confronting a major political scandal. Graham Platner faces intense backlash over a tattoo resembling a Nazi symbol. The controversy emerged from a recently surfaced video.

Platner, a Democratic candidate, has vowed to remove the ink immediately. He claims he was unaware of its historical significance. This incident marks the second major controversy for his campaign in recent weeks.

SS Totenkopf Symbol Sparks Widespread Outrage

The tattoo depicts a skull and crossbones. It closely mirrors the SS Totenkopf, a notorious Nazi emblem. According to Politico, this symbol was used by Hitler’s Schutzstaffel units.

These units operated concentration camps during the Holocaust. The video showing the tattoo was initially shared by his own campaign. It gained significant traction after being featured on a popular political podcast.

Public reaction has been swift and severe. Many viewers expressed shock and condemnation online. The candidate’s explanation has done little to quell the criticism.

Campaign Damage Control Amid Existing Scandals

This tattoo row compounds existing problems for Platner. His campaign was already reeling from resurfaced Reddit posts. In those old posts, he used offensive language and made controversial statements.

He previously apologized for the social media activity. Platner stated those posts were attempts to provoke reactions online. Now, this new controversy threatens to derail his political ambitions entirely.

The situation highlights the heightened scrutiny facing modern political candidates. Past actions and personal history are increasingly subject to public examination. For Platner, the path forward appears increasingly difficult.

The Maine Senate race has taken an unexpected turn with this Nazi symbol controversy. Graham Platner’s campaign must now navigate this serious political storm. His immediate response will be crucial for his political future.

Thought you’d like to know

What is the SS Totenkopf symbol?

The SS Totenkopf is a skull and crossbones emblem. It was used by Nazi Germany’s SS units during World War II. These units were directly involved in operating concentration camps.

How did Graham Platner explain the tattoo?

Platner stated he was unaware of the Nazi connection. He said he got the tattoo while drinking with fellow Marines in Croatia. The candidate has promised to have it removed.

What other controversy has affected Platner’s campaign?

Old Reddit posts under his username recently surfaced. These posts contained offensive slurs and controversial political statements. He previously apologized for these online comments.

How has this affected his Senate campaign?

The dual controversies have created significant political damage. They have dominated media coverage of his campaign. Voter perception has likely been negatively impacted.

When did this controversy emerge?

The tattoo video surfaced in October 2025. It gained attention after being played on a political podcast. The story developed rapidly across news platforms.