Bestselling horror author Stephen King found himself at the center of a political storm this week after publicly defending Maine Democratic Senate nominee Graham Platner, only to retreat after a wave of criticism from across the political spectrum.
The controversy erupted following a bombshell report detailing a sexual assault allegation against Platner, a Democrat whose campaign was already struggling under the weight of multiple controversies. Platner has denied the allegations and has not been charged with a crime, but the accusation triggered a rapid political fallout that has seen major Democratic figures withdraw support and call on him to leave the race.
King, one of Maine’s most recognizable public figures and a longtime critic of President Donald Trump, weighed in on social media after the allegations surfaced.
“Tell you what–if you knew the whole truth about everyone in the Senate and House of Reps, those chambers would be dead empty. Jesus said, ‘Let him without sin cast the first stone,'” King wrote.
In another post that was later deleted, King wrote, “Graham Platner may drop out. (I hope he doesn’t, but.) Meanwhile, the Abuser in Chief just keeps on keepin’ on.”
The response was swift and brutal.
Commentators from both the left and right blasted the comparison, arguing that allegations of sexual assault are not the kind of issue that can be brushed aside as ordinary political baggage. Social media quickly filled with criticism accusing King of minimizing the seriousness of the accusations against Platner.
Within hours, King attempted to clarify his position.
“Not defending Grah[m] Platner. If he committed rape, he should bow out. Just making a comparison,” King posted.
The damage, however, had already been done.
The broader scandal surrounding Platner continues to grow. According to multiple reports, Democratic leaders including Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, Senator Elizabeth Warren, Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, and other prominent Democrats have publicly urged Platner to withdraw from the race. The Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee has reportedly signaled it will not invest resources in the race while Platner remains the nominee.
The allegations have created a political nightmare for Democrats in Maine, where incumbent Republican Senator Susan Collins was already expected to face a highly competitive reelection battle. Party officials are now openly discussing potential replacement candidates should Platner step aside before Maine’s deadline for candidate substitution.
One of the enduring truths of modern politics is that many public figures are perfectly comfortable applying one standard to their opponents and another to their allies. The problem comes when the internet preserves the receipts.
DBS WIRE SOURCES:
Mediaite — Stephen King Walks Back, Deletes Tweet Defending Graham Platner After Avalanche of Criticism
Bangor Daily News — Stephen King Defends Graham Platner Amid Rape Allegation
