AUGUSTA, MAINE (VINnews) – Maine’s Democratic nominee for U.S. Senate, Graham Platner, is the subject of swirling rumors that he may drop out of the race after abruptly canceling multiple campaign events, just days before a key deadline that could allow party leaders to replace him on the ballot.

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Platner, an oyster farmer and Marine veteran who secured the Democratic nomination in the June 9 primary, has come under intense scrutiny over past controversies, including a chest tattoo resembling a Nazi SS “Totenkopf” symbol and old online comments that drew widespread criticism.

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According to sources familiar with the situation, Platner has canceled several scheduled appearances in recent days, fueling speculation that he could exit the contest before Maine’s July 12 or 13 dropout deadline. Under state law, if the nominee withdraws by the second Monday in July, the Democratic Party can select a replacement candidate.

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If Platner does not step aside by the deadline, Democrats would be largely stuck with him as their standard-bearer against incumbent Republican Sen. Susan Collins in the November general election. Party officials have privately expressed concerns about the challenges of running a candidate with significant baggage in a competitive race.

President Donald Trump recently highlighted Platner’s controversies at a rally, stating: “For TEN YEARS, they said ‘TRUMP IS A NAZI!’ Now they can’t say that anymore, because they have a guy with a [Nazi] tattoo on his chest!” Trump’s remarks drew laughter from the crowd and amplified national attention on the Democrat’s past.

Platner has previously denied being aware of the tattoo’s Nazi associations when he got it years ago and has vowed to remain in the race despite staff turnover and other setbacks. He has described himself as a progressive outsider fighting for working Mainers.

The situation echoes the Democratic National Committee’s efforts last cycle to manage an aging or embattled candidate, with some observers drawing parallels to the pressure campaign that led to President Joe Biden’s withdrawal.