Platner's wife calls reports about Senate candidate's explicit texts with women 'shameful'
By — Jesse Bedayn, Associated Press/ Report for America Jesse Bedayn, Associated Press/ Report for America By — Kimberlee Kruesi, Associated Press Kimberlee Kruesi, Associated Press Leave your feedback Share Copy URL https://www.pbs.org/newshour/politics/platners-wife-calls-reports-about-senate-candidates-explicit-texts-with-women-shameful Email Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Pinterest Tumblr Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Platner's wife calls reports about Senate candidate's explicit texts with women 'shameful' Politics May 31, 2026 5:10 PM EDT Graham Platner's wife called reports that her husband had previously exchanged sexually explicit text messages with several women "shameful" over the weekend, the latest controversy to hit the Maine Democrat's whirlwind campaign. Platner, an oyster farmer and combat veteran, posted a video taken by his wife, Amy Gertner, who reportedly told his campaign of the text messages last year. In the five minute video, Gertner avoided speaking directly about her husband's reported texts, dubbing the broader coverage as "gossip" and saying that "being married is hard." "I find it really shameful that there's a group of media outlets and people who are willing to spread gossip," she said in the informal, selfie-style video where she walked along a road. "No marriage is perfect, and I don't want a perfect marriage. I want my marriage." READ MORE: Maine's Graham Platner thinks voters will overlook his past to support a new type of candidate Platner is seeking the Democratic nomination for one of the most closely-watched Senate races as Democrats hope to defeat longtime Republican Sen. Susan Collins in the party's efforts to win control of the closely divided Senate. The Maine primary is June 9. The texts were first reported by The Wall Street Journal, which wrote that Gertner had told the campaign in August about the messages she had found on Platner's phone earlier in their marriage. The New York Times, which also published a story Saturday about the texts, named former aide Genevieve McDonald as one of the then-campaign staffers who confirmed the messages. Both newspapers reported that Gertner wanted to ensure the texts didn't pose a political liability to the novice candidate. Platner's campaign team eventually decided that the texts were private and being handled by the couple, who were married in 2023. The two are in counseling, Gertner has said. Platner's campaign on Sunday did not specifically confirm the text messages to The Associated Press, but issued a statement from Gertner saying the disclosure of the conversations she had with a campaign aide was a betrayal that "deeply hurt." "I trusted this person with the most private chapter of our lives — the early days of our marriage before any campaign was on our mind," she wrote. It's not Platner's first controversy Platner, who has never held public office, has a gruff, less buttoned-up approach on the campaign trail, fashioned a platform around economic equalit
In a world where communication can transcend boundaries, its crucial we maintain the integrity and respect of all individuals involved. Lets hope that Senator Platners wifes call for accountability sets a positive tone for responsible political discourse. #TechOptimism #RespectForWomen #Accountability
While I understand the sensitivity around political campaigning, its important to fact-check any claims. Without concrete evidence, calling out someone based on unverified allegations can be damaging to their reputation and public trust. Lets focus on evidence-based discussions instead.
Its important to remember that personal interactions and relationships are complex and multifaceted. While explicit messages may be inappropriate in certain contexts, its crucial to consider the full circumstances and nuances of any situation before jumping to conclusions. Its also important to respect the privacy and autonomy of individuals involved. As with any matter, its essential to approach the situation with an open mind and a willingness to consider multiple perspectives.
The complexity of personal interactions demands a nuanced approach. While explicit messages may be inappropriate, understanding the full context is crucial. Lets focus on transparency and accountability rather than jumping to harsh judgments.
Absolutely! Accountability and respect are non-negotiable in any communication, especially in public service. Lets root for a Senate candidate who embodies these values and leads with integrity. #StandardsMatter #RespectFirst
Hey, lets not jump to conclusions. Maybe those texts were just friendly banter. Its all about context, you know?
Excuse me, but are we sure the reports about the Senate candidates explicit texts with women are true? Maybe he was just being friendly and professional. We need more evidence before jumping to conclusions.
Great to see Platner standing up for accountability! True leaders prioritize respect and integrity over sensationalism. Lets keep supporting candidates who uphold these values. #StandForIntegrity
Context matters, but the implications can be serious. Trust is vital in politics, and actions should be scrutinized carefully.
Professionalism and respect in public service demand the highest standards. Without concrete evidence, these allegations should be treated with caution. Lets ensure our elected officials are upholding the values we hold dear.
Professionalism and respect in public service demand the highest standards. Without concrete evidence, these allegations should be treated with caution. Lets ensure our elected officials are upholding the very values they claim to represent. #StandardsMatter #PublicService
Is it so hard to believe someone could be both politically astute and personally respectful? Maybe we should focus on more important issues than gossiping about text messages.
Shouldnt we be discussing the policies and actions of Senate candidates rather than getting caught up in the personal lives of politicians?
Professionalism and respect in public service demand the highest standards. Without concrete evidence, these allegations should be treated with caution. Lets ensure our elected officials are upholding the values they claim to represent.
Reporters should focus on facts, not sensationalism. This story is a prime example of the press running wild, causing unnecessary drama and tarnishing innocent peoples reputations. Its important to remember that people make mistakes, and we should give them the benefit of the doubt.