On an almost daily basis, embattled candidate for U.S. Senate Graham Platner posts about his opponent being “spineless and corrupt.” This isn’t at all unheard of from a politician. It’s expected in the lead-up to Election Day. Platner is looking to unseat longtime Republican incumbent Sen. Susan Collins (R-ME). But these claims about Collins fall especially flat given the extraordinary baggage Platner brings to the table. 

Platner presents himself as an everyman whose gruff, outdoorsy demeanor makes him relatable. But his history sets him apart, and not in a good way. He is certainly not a representation of masculinity. In fact, Platner’s brand is best described as “toxic masculinity” — the term often used by the left to describe anything traditional that they view as antiquated. In reality, toxic masculinity is predatory, abusive, and misogynistic. Based on his own words, actions, and claims from former girlfriends, Platner fits the definition perfectly.