In a surprising twist from Maine, Democratic U.S. Senate candidate Graham Platner finds himself at the center of controversy. Platner, known for his affluence and previous support for Bernie Sanders, presents himself as an authentic “Maine oyster farmer.” However, recent allegations suggest he may have a disturbing connection to Nazi symbolism.

Unlike typical accusations where conservatives are unfoundedly labeled as Nazis by political opponents or the media, the claims against Platner come with specific evidence. The controversy stems from a tattoo on Platner’s chest resembling the Totenkopf, or “death’s head” symbol. This emblem, notoriously associated with Hitler’s SS during the Nazi regime, was particularly linked to the units responsible for guarding concentration camps.

Platner has responded to these allegations by explaining that the tattoo was a result of a spontaneous decision made while he was in the military. According to him, he and his companions were intoxicated at the time and he was unaware of the symbol’s historical significance. Despite his explanation, many remain skeptical of his account, challenging the credibility of his story.

Now, Platner claims that while he was in the military, drunk, on a lark, he and his fellows decided to get tattoos, and he didn’t know what the tattoo meant when he chose it.  Others strongly dispute his story, however.