Khanna acknowledged that Platner’s previous relationships were “toxic and volatile” and said there was no excuse for misogyny. However, the California progressive argued that Platner was accepting responsibility, had changed his life and deserved “redemption.”

Khanna said Platner had struggled after serving combat tours in Iraq and later found stability after returning to Maine and becoming an oyster farmer. 

Platner, the leading Democratic candidate seeking to unseat Republican Sen. Susan Collins, has faced mounting controversies. These include inflammatory Reddit posts, allegations concerning heavy drinking and violent episodes, and a chest tattoo resembling a Nazi symbol that he later covered. Platner denies the latest accusations, calling them false and politically motivated.