Lever Time BONUS: An Exclusive Interview With Graham Platner
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Nov 1, 2025 In a compelling discussion, Graham Platner, a military veteran, oyster farmer, and first-time Democratic U.S. Senate candidate from Maine, dives into his grassroots campaign aimed at challenging Susan Collins. He addresses past controversies, including problematic social media posts, emphasizing his growth and commitment to change. Platner shares insights on political violence, the necessity of labor-focused policies, and how grassroots messages resonate with working-class voters, posing crucial questions about the future of the Democratic party.
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Ground-Up Politics Restores Power
- Graham Platner argues politics must be rebuilt from the ground up to make it accessible to working people.
- He emphasizes organizing power of ordinary people against organized money to revive democracy.
From Disillusionment To Oyster Farming
- Platner describes returning from Afghanistan deeply disillusioned and briefly embracing nihilistic anti-establishment views.
- He later moved home, became an oyster farmer, and regained hope through local community work.
Tattoo Mistake And Anti-Fascist Identity
- Platner recounts having a skull-and-crossbones tattoo for 18 years and never recognizing it as a Nazi symbol.
- He notes he frequently appeared shirtless in public and maintained an anti-fascist identity throughout.