In Maine, a growing number of supporters are urging former Governor Janet Mills to reconsider her decision to suspend her campaign for the U.S. Senate. Mills, who had paused her campaign over a month ago, remains on the ballot for the upcoming June 9 primary, thanks to the state’s ranked-choice voting system.
Calls for Mills to re-enter the race have intensified following recent controversies involving her opponent, Graham Platner. Reports surfaced that Platner’s wife, Amy Gertner, had informed campaign staff about inappropriate text messages he sent to other women. This revelation has sparked concerns about Platner’s ability to secure a critical Senate seat for Democrats in the upcoming November elections.
Support for Mills
Former state senator Lynn Bromley, who has been vocal in her support for Mills, expressed her desire for Mills to resume her campaign. Bromley, along with other supporters, believes that Mills still has a strong chance in the primary, despite Platner being the presumptive nominee.
State Rep. Holly Eaton echoed this sentiment, stating her intention to vote for Mills and expressing hope that Mills would unsuspend her campaign. Mills’ supporters, including those in the “Women for Janet” coalition, have been particularly disappointed by her decision to suspend her campaign, as they had highlighted her record on issues such as abortion rights and criticized Platner’s past comments on sensitive topics.
Platner’s Campaign Under Scrutiny
Despite the controversies, Platner continues to receive support from prominent progressives, including Sen. Bernie Sanders and Sen. Elizabeth Warren. Sanders, in particular, has downplayed the personal issues, emphasizing the need to focus on broader issues affecting working families.
However, the revelations have raised doubts about Platner’s viability as a candidate, especially among female voters. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, who initially recruited Mills to challenge Republican Sen. Susan Collins, has not commented on the recent developments.
As the primary approaches, Mills’ supporters remain hopeful that she will reconsider her campaign suspension. Her recent interview with the Portland Press Herald, where she clarified that she is still on the ballot, has given them renewed optimism.
Whether Mills will heed these calls remains to be seen, but the situation underscores the complexities of political campaigns and the impact of personal controversies on candidates’ prospects.
Original reporting: KTVZ (Central Oregon) — read the source article.
