Democrats turn on their own candidate over a Nazi tattoo and a dark past

Top leaders say Graham Platner's excuses do not add up as his Senate run in Maine falls apart.

When a party finds its best hope for power, it usually looks the other way. But some secrets are too loud to ignore.

WHAT HAPPENED

Graham Platner is running for the Senate in Maine. He was the Democrats' best shot at winning most seats. Now, his own party is backing away.

People found a Nazi-linked tattoo on his body. Platner says he did not know what the symbol meant. Top Democrats like Rep. Brad Schneider say they do not believe him.

Former coworkers at a bar in D.C. are also speaking out. They describe Platner as a "troubled" and "dark" person. Senate leader Chuck Schumer is now trying to fix the mess.

WHAT THE EVIDENCE SHOWS

Rep. Brad Schneider called Platner's excuse "not credible."

• The tattoo has clear links to Nazi groups.
• Former coworkers describe a history of "dark" behavior.
• Chuck Schumer is now in "damage control" mode.
• This race is key to who runs the U.S. Senate.

THE BIGGER QUESTION

Why do parties wait until the last minute to check their stars? We often pick winners based on how they look on TV. We forget to look at who they really are until it is too late.

Is the drive to win so strong that it blinds leaders to the truth? This story shows how a single mistake can ruin a plan for power.

THE OTHER SIDE

Platner says he did not know the tattoo was a hate symbol. He claims he is being unfairly attacked by people who want him to lose.

This defense seems weak because the symbol is well-known to many people.

WHAT HAPPENS NOW

Maine voters are left in the middle. If Platner stays in, he might lose a seat the Democrats need. If he leaves, the party has to start over very late.

This could change who runs the Senate next year. It puts a lot of stress on local voters who just want a fair choice.

WHAT WE STILL DON'T KNOW

When exactly did Platner get the tattoo?

• Will he officially drop out of the race?
• Who knew about these claims before he started running?

SOURCE NOTE

Based on reporting from The Hill. All charges are allegations - Graham Platner is presumed innocent until proven guilty.