Platner and Collins feud over his ‘decision to serve’ in Iraq war Democratic Senate candidate Graham Platner responded forcefully to Senator Susan Collins’ assertion that his service in the Iraq War was solely his decision. Platner, a Marine Corps veteran, called Collins’ statement a “slap in the face” to service members’ families, highlighting that no one was drafted and that Collins voted to fund the war and against withdrawal. Platner believes Collins is deflecting blame for her support of the war by criticizing those who enlisted.

• Graham Platner, a leading Democrat in the Maine Senate race, criticized Senator Susan Collins for stating his Iraq War service was his own decision.
• Collins mentioned Platner enlisted twice after the war started and worked for Blackwater, emphasizing his service was a choice.
• Platner retorted that Collins’ comment was disrespectful to families of service members and that Collins voted to fund the war and against withdrawal.
• Platner argued that Collins and establishment politicians exploited the willingness of young people to serve in “stupid wars.”
• The exchange occurs as Platner gains momentum, leading Collins in polls ahead of the general election.