Trump Calls Graham Platner A ‘Thug’ After He Wins Maine Senate Primary

BreakingBusinessTrump Calls Graham Platner A ‘Thug’ After He Wins Maine Senate PrimaryBySara Dorn,Forbes Staff. Sara Dorn is a Forbes news reporter who covers politics.Follow AuthorJun 10, 2026, 12:37pm EDTToplinePresident Donald Trump ripped Democrats over their new nominee for Senate in Maine, Graham Platner—who has been compared to Trump for his anti-establishment messaging and ability to overcome scandals—calling him a “thug” on Wednesday after Platner won his primary Tuesday despite a series of allegations about troubling behavior towards women.Democratic U.S. Senate candidate Graham Platner speaks at his Primary Election event on June 9, 2026 in Blue Hill, Maine. (Photo by CJ Gunther/Getty Images)Getty ImagesKey FactsTrump said Democrats are “trying to make excuses” for Platner, calling him “worse than any human being that has ever run for office, probably” and an “outright pig.” Platner won 75% of the vote when the race was called Tuesday. He ran virtually uncontested after Gov. Janet Mills stopped campaigning in April, though she remained on the ballot and won 19% of votes.This is a developing story and will be updated.Got a tip? Share confidential information with Forbes.Editorial StandardsReprints & PermissionsLOADING VIDEO PLAYER...FORBES’ FEATURED Video