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Bernie Sanders Backs Graham Platner Despite Sexting Scandal

June 2, 2026

Summary

Senator Bernie Sanders has reaffirmed his endorsement of Maine Senate candidate Graham Platner, despite reports of sexually explicit texts to women and other scandals, with Sanders stating Platner has the "guts" to fight billionaires.

How coverage differs

Left outlets focus on Graham Platner's response to sexting reports and Maine voter reactions, while right outlets emphasize Bernie Sanders' refusal to withdraw endorsement, highlighting his “guts” quote amidst the scandal.

  • Left: Progressive fight against billionaires outweighs candidate's personal scandal Left-leaning outlets focus on Graham Platner's response to the reports of sexually explicit text messages, often including statements from Platner himself. They also explore how voters in Maine are reacting to the ongoing scandal in the Senate race.
  • Center: Senator Bernie Sanders is standing by his endorsement of Graham Platner Center outlets neutrally report on Senator Bernie Sanders' decision to stand by his endorsement of Graham Platner following the controversy surrounding sexually explicit texts. They factually present Sanders' public statements regarding his continued support for the Maine Senate candidate.
  • Right: Senator Bernie Sanders' continued support for Graham Platner Right-leaning outlets highlight Senator Bernie Sanders' steadfast refusal to withdraw his endorsement of Graham Platner, despite the mounting controversy over explicit texts to women. They emphasize Sanders' quote about Platner having the 'guts' to fight billionaires amidst a growing 'scandal pileup'.

Coverage by lane

Left

  • Graham Platner responds to reports that he sent sexually explicit text messages
  • Voters weigh in on Platner sexting scandal in Maine Senate race

Center

  • Sen. Bernie Sanders stands by Graham Platner after controversy over sexually explicit texts - AP News

Right

  • Bernie Sanders refuses to back away from Graham Platner endorsement despite report of explicit texts to women
  • Sanders says Platner has the 'guts' to fight billionaires despite growing scandal pileup

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