Graham Platner Was a Train Wreck—but Playing It Safe Is Not the Answer

The unexpected collapse of Graham Platner's campaign for Maine senator highlights the dangers of overlooking warning signs, especially when it comes to candidates' personal conduct. After a woman accused him of sexual assault and amid his controversial past, including a Nazi tattoo and reports of mistreatment of women, Platner suspended his campaign. This incident underscores the importance of thorough vetting and the potential consequences for political parties that prematurely champion candidates without proper scrutiny. While the Democrats' swift distancing from Platner is understandable, it also raises questions about how to handle similar situations in future elections.