Democratic Senate hopeful Graham Platton faces a personal scandal as his wife, Amy Gertner, disclosed that he had exchanged sexual messages with multiple women. The revelation emerged last summer, just as Platton’s insurgent bid against Republican incumbent Susan Collins began to gain traction among Maine’s electorate, where female voters are decisive. The disclosure came after the campaign posted a glossy fundraising video that highlighted his working‑class credentials.

Gertner told a senior aide the couple, married in November 2023, was in counseling to address the infidelity. Campaign insiders reported the sexting involved up to a dozen women, though a current staffer said six were confirmed. Former political director Genevieve McDonald warned the disclosure could become a liability ahead of a Labor‑Day rally with Senator Bernie Sanders. The timing coincided with internal vetting.

The episode adds fresh pressure to a race Democrats view as critical for Senate race control. Republicans have revived old Reddit posts where Platton disparaged women and minorities, while his campaign stresses counseling and a strengthened marriage. Voters have already pressed Platton on the issue, and analysts warn the scandal may hurt fundraising.