Maine and South Carolina were among the most closely watched states in Tuesday's primaries. The Senate race in Maine and the governor races in both states will determine not only the winners on election night but also the political messages conveyed by the vote margins.
In Maine, Democrat Graham Platner faces no significant opposition in the Senate race, but controversies surrounding his campaign continue to cast a shadow. Although Platner has appeared to lead for some time, there is curiosity about how new allegations against him will affect voter behavior.
In Maine, focus is not only on the winner but also on the vote margin
Platner's name has been linked to offensive, racist, and sexually explicit comments he posted on Reddit between 2009 and 2021. Among these posts are statements that downplay sexual assault. It was also revealed that he has a tattoo resembling a Nazi symbol; Platner said he did not know the meaning of this symbol until late last year and subsequently covered the tattoo.
The campaign was further challenged by additional allegations that emerged later. It was reported that during the early years of his marriage, Platner exchanged sexually explicit messages with multiple women, and three former girlfriends described his behavior as "volatile" and "disturbing."
One former girlfriend alleged that Platner was physically harsh toward her. The same woman also claimed that Platner knew the Nazi symbolism of his tattoo before last year.
Platner told MS NOW that some accusations are untrue. He denied the physical contact claims and the assertion that he knew the tattoo's meaning beforehand, arguing these allegations are politically motivated.
Democratic Governor Janet Mills suspended her campaign weeks ago. Although Mills withdrew, her name remains on the ballot, technically keeping the primary active. However, there is no indication she will restart her campaign.
Among the Democratic candidates in Maine are former Maine CDC director Nirav Shah, former state Senate president Troy Jackson, renewable energy entrepreneur Angus King III, Secretary of State Shenna Bellows, and former House Speaker Hannah Pingree. Recent polls show no candidate approaching 50%, bringing the state's ranked-choice voting system back into focus.
Under this system, if no candidate wins a majority in the first round, the candidate with the fewest votes is eliminated, and votes are redistributed based on voters' second choices. This process repeats until two candidates remain, and the one with the majority wins.
On the Republican side in Maine, former State Department official Bobby Charles is leading. Health technology entrepreneur Jonathan Bush, real estate investor David Jones, former state legislator Garrett Mason, and fitness industry businessman Ben Midgley are also in the race.
Republicans in South Carolina Compete for Trump’s Endorsement
In South Carolina, Republican Senator Lindsey Graham is spending millions to solidify support from the party’s right wing as he seeks a fifth term. President Donald Trump endorsed Graham over a year ago, yet numerous Republican candidates have entered the race.
Businessman Mark Lynch, who lent $5 million to his own campaign, has emerged as one of Graham’s strongest challengers. Paul Dans, one of the architects of Project 2025, also joined the race but ended his campaign in mid-April to support Lynch.
It is noted that no Republican candidate has ever surpassed 70% in a Senate primary during Graham’s tenure. Nevertheless, he has consistently outspent and outlasted his rivals in both primaries and general elections. This time, Lynch’s grassroots support is being closely monitored.
On the Democratic side, pediatrician Annie Andrews is running a campaign sharply critical of Graham, labeling him a "warmonger" and a "man of the establishment."
Governor Races and House Balance Also Under Scrutiny
Another major focus on election night is the crowded governor primaries in Maine and South Carolina. In Maine’s Democratic race, Shah, Jackson, King III, Bellows, and Pingree are leading contenders. On the Republican side, Bobby Charles appears ahead, with the race expected to be decided by ranked-choice voting.
In South Carolina, the open governor’s race will determine who replaces a term-limited incumbent for the first time in 15 years. In the Republican primary, Trump-endorsed Lieutenant Governor Pamela Evette faces opponents including Attorney General Alan Wilson and House members Nancy Mace and Ralph Norman.
Trump’s backing of Evette is seen as a move that could shift the race’s dynamics, though whether it will truly alter the balance among candidates will be revealed by the vote.
There are also notable contests in the House races. Maine’s 2nd Congressional District stands out as one of the most critical seats for the fall general election. The seat, vacated by retiring Democrat Jared Golden, presents a key pickup opportunity for Republicans.
On the Democratic side, former state senator Joe Baldacci, state auditor Matt Dunlap, and Jordan Wood are competing. Baldacci positions himself as a candidate appealing to moderate voters, Dunlap emphasizes a "Medicare for All" platform, and Wood is notable for raising the most campaign funds by a wide margin.
Republican former Governor Paul LePage is running unopposed and has Trump’s endorsement. LePage’s controversial past statements are seen as both an asset and a liability in his political career.
Several critical races have also emerged in Nevada. Democrats are focusing on the competitive 3rd District race, while Republicans face less contested primaries for three incumbent representatives. The battle for Susie Lee’s seat is particularly important for the general election balance this fall.
