In the midst of a controversy involving sexually explicit text messages, Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders has expressed his continued support for Graham Platner, a Democratic candidate for the U.S. Senate from Maine. The controversy arose from media reports that Platner exchanged explicit messages with several women while married. Platner’s wife, Amy Gertner, addressed the issue in a video, dismissing the coverage as mere ‘gossip’ and acknowledging the challenges of marriage.

Focus on Key Issues

Sen. Sanders, a prominent early supporter of Platner, emphasized the need to focus on critical issues impacting Maine’s working families, such as healthcare, grocery costs, and fuel prices. He stated, ‘People can’t afford healthcare. Can’t afford groceries. Can’t afford to put gas in their cars. And I think it might be a good idea if we focused on the important issues facing the working families of Maine and this country.’

Sanders is scheduled to meet with Platner during his visit to Washington, underscoring his belief that the nation should prioritize more significant issues over the candidate’s personal life.

Upcoming Campaign Events

Platner, an oyster farmer and combat veteran, is vying for the Democratic nomination in a highly watched Senate race against long-time Republican Sen. Susan Collins. The Maine primary is set for June 9. Platner’s primary opponent, Maine Gov. Janet Mills, suspended her campaign in April, leaving Platner as the leading Democratic contender.

Platner is expected to attend a fundraiser co-hosted by Ron Klain, former chief of staff to President Joe Biden. Additionally, he is scheduled to appear at a ‘get out the vote’ rally in Bar Harbor alongside progressive Rep. Ro Khanna of California and other Democratic candidates from Maine. The event will take place at a historic theater in the coastal resort town.

Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.