Democrats Silent on Candidate’s Nazi Tattoo, Criticized Hegseth’s Christian Ink

Prominent Democrats have remained silent regarding the tattoo controversy surrounding Maine Senate candidate Graham Platner, despite previously criticizing Secretary of War Pete Hegseth for similar reasons. Senators Elizabeth Warren and Tammy Duckworth were vocal about Hegseth’s tattoos, which include Christian symbols linked to the Crusades. However, both senators have not commented on Platner’s Nazi-style tattoo.
Background on the Controversy
Senator Warren previously expressed her enthusiasm for Platner’s Senate candidacy. She remarked, “I’m excited to see new people enter the race for the Senate,” indicating support for progressive voices. Despite this, when the issues surrounding Platner’s tattoo surfaced, both Warren and Duckworth have not publicly condemned him.
The Tattoo in Question
Graham Platner’s tattoo features the “Totenkopf” symbol, a skull and crossbones design historically associated with Nazi Germany. Platner, a Marine veteran endorsed by Senator Bernie Sanders, claims he was unaware of the symbol’s associations when he got it during a night out in Croatia in 2007. Due to the backlash, he has since covered the tattoo with a different design.
Responses to the Controversy
- Warren’s silence contrasts with her strong criticism directed at Hegseth.
- During confirmation hearings, Warren raised concerns over Hegseth’s “Deus Vult” tattoo.
- Duckworth also critiqued Hegseth, suggesting he mismanaged his financial decisions and remarked on the nature of his tattoos.
After the controversy erupted, Platner defended himself, stating he chose the tattoo design without understanding its historical significance. He expressed that he has led a life dedicated to anti-fascism, anti-racism, and anti-Nazism, emphasizing his surprise at the negative associations of the symbol. A spokesperson for Sanders downplayed the media focus on Platner’s tattoo, suggesting that other issues are more critical.
Support for Platner
Despite the tattoo fallout, Sanders continues to support Platner’s candidacy. He considers Platner an excellent candidate and looks forward to his potential election as Maine’s next senator.
The contrasting reactions to Hegseth and Platner raise questions about the standards applied to candidates across the political spectrum. As the Senate race evolves, the tattoo controversy remains a topic of discussion among voters and media alike.