‘He’s a thug’: Trump insults scandal-plagued Maine Democrat in crucial Senate race

President Donald Trump has leveled harsh criticism against Graham Platner, the newly minted Democratic nominee for the U.S. Senate in Maine, labeling him a "thug" and asserting he is likely the worst individual to ever seek public office.

Primary Results and Controversies

Platner, a military veteran, secured his party's nomination this past Tuesday by capturing over 71% of the vote. He emerged victorious following the departure of Gov. Janet Mills from the race. With the primary behind him, Platner now prepares to face incumbent Republican Sen. Susan Collins in the November general election.

His path to the nomination has been anything but smooth. The campaign has been rocked by several high-profile controversies, including a past controversy involving a Nazi tattoo—which the candidate has since had removed—a sexting scandal, and claims from former partners who alleged he was physically threatening.

Trump Weighs In

In comments made to reporters on Wednesday, President Trump did not mince words regarding the Maine Democrat. Despite stating he did not personally know Platner, Trump characterized the candidate’s political record as unprecedented.

"I watch that thug that’s up in Maine. He’s a thug. And they’re trying to make excuses for him. I mean, he’s worse than any human being that’s ever run for office, probably," Trump said. The former president compared his experience dealing with tough figures in his real estate career to the rhetoric surrounding Platner, stating, "This guy’s got a rap sheet, I’ve never seen anything like it. He’s a thug. I know thugs. I had to deal with thugs. I built a lot of buildings. I dealt with the toughest people on Earth."

The Road to November

Following his primary win, Platner quickly shifted his focus to the general election and Sen. Susan Collins, who advanced unopposed in the Republican primary, as reported by the Associated Press.

Platner, who served in the Marine Corps and the U.S. Army, criticized Collins' legislative record. "Susan Collins has never met a war she didn’t like, she’s been supporting endless wars since I was a teenager, and I know, I had to fight in two of them," Platner said. "You and your friends profited, and my friends died."

The Associated Press contributed to this report for 205focus.com.