Ruben Gallego backs Maine Senate hopeful Graham Platner

Arizona Democrat Ruben Gallego endorses first-time candidate Graham Platner in key Senate race

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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Maine Democrat Graham Platner has picked up another high-profile endorsement in his bid to flip a key Senate seat blue, with Arizona Democrat Ruben Gallego announcing his support for the first-time candidate. Gallego praised Platner's "grit and independence" and said he reflects the kind of fighter Maine hasn't seen in a long time.

Why it matters

This endorsement from Gallego, a rising star in the Democratic party, is another sign of Platner's political resiliency despite facing some controversies during his campaign. The Maine Senate race is seen as a crucial battleground for Democrats as they aim to retake control of the Senate in 2026.

The details

Platner, a 41-year-old oyster farmer and combat veteran, is running against Maine Gov. Janet Mills, who has the backing of Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer. Both are hoping to unseat five-term Republican incumbent Sen. Susan Collins. Platner has gained traction with his anti-establishment image and economic equality message, despite facing scrutiny over old social media posts and a tattoo resembling a Nazi symbol.

  • Gallego announced his endorsement of Platner on Monday, March 2, 2026.
  • Platner previously received endorsements from Sen. Bernie Sanders and Sen. Martin Heinrich.

The players

Ruben Gallego

An Arizona Democrat who won a Senate seat in 2024 and is considered a possible 2028 presidential contender.

Graham Platner

A 41-year-old Maine Democrat running for the U.S. Senate, described as a first-time candidate with an anti-establishment image and economic equality message.

Janet Mills

The Democratic governor of Maine who is also running for the U.S. Senate seat.

Susan Collins

The five-term Republican incumbent U.S. Senator from Maine who is running for re-election.

Chuck Schumer

The Senate Minority Leader who has endorsed Platner's opponent, Janet Mills.

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What they’re saying

“Graham Platner is the kind of fighter Maine hasn't seen in a long time, someone who tells you exactly what he thinks, doesn't owe anything to the special interests, and wakes up every day thinking about working families.”

— Ruben Gallego

“I have an immense amount of respect for him and I'm looking forward to joining him as a fellow Marine and combat infantryman in the U.S. Senate.”

— Graham Platner

The takeaway

This endorsement from Ruben Gallego, a rising Democratic star, underscores the national attention and support Platner is receiving in his bid to flip a key Senate seat in Maine. Despite facing some campaign controversies, Platner's anti-establishment message and military background appear to be resonating with voters in the state.