Representative Jake Auchincloss of Massachusetts publicly criticized Maine Democratic Senate candidate Graham Platner over a tattoo linked to Nazi imagery, calling it 'personally disqualifying' and urging voters to reject his candidacy. Auchincloss said the party should not view Platner’s approach as a path to building lasting national majorities.

Platner, a military veteran and the party’s expected nominee in a competitive Senate race, has faced months of scrutiny over a chest tattoo resembling a Nazi skull symbol. Although he has said he was unaware of its meaning when he got it in 2007, reports have indicated he knew of its historical ties. He recently had the tattoo covered following public backlash and controversy over past online comments.

Auchincloss is among the few Democrats to openly rebuke Platner and previously called on him to leave the race. Most party leaders have remained publicly supportive or declined to criticize him as he prepares to face Republican Senator Susan Collins in the general election. Auchincloss has clarified that his opposition to Platner does not amount to support for Collins.