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

President Donald Trump has leveled harsh criticism at Graham Platner, the controversial Democratic U.S. Senate candidate who secured a primary victory in Maine on Tuesday. Trump did not mince words, labeling the military veteran a "thug" and claiming he is "worse than any human being that’s ever run for office, probably."

A Primary Win Amidst Scandal

Platner emerged from the Democratic primary with over 71% of the vote following the withdrawal of Gov. Janet Mills. He is now set to challenge incumbent Republican Sen. Susan Collins in November. However, his campaign has been significantly hindered by a series of scandals. These include a past controversy surrounding a Nazi tattoo, which he has since had removed, as well as an ongoing sexting scandal and allegations from former partners who have described his behavior as "physically threatening."

Trump Weighs In

Speaking to reporters on Wednesday, Trump insisted he does not know Platner personally, yet continued his verbal assault. "I watch that thug that’s up in Maine," Trump remarked. "He’s a thug. And they’re trying to make excuses for him. I mean, nobody’s ever had a record like that." The former president drew from his own business background to emphasize his assessment, stating, "I know thugs. I had to deal with thugs. I built a lot of buildings. I dealt with the toughest people on Earth."

The Path to November

Despite the mounting pressure, Platner is moving forward by focusing his campaign on his upcoming battle against Sen. Collins, who was unopposed in the GOP primary, as reported by the Associated Press. Platner, a veteran of both the Marine Corps and the U.S. Army, criticized Collins during his post-primary speech. "Susan Collins has never met a war she didn’t like," Platner said. "You and your friends profited, and my friends died."

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