Graham Platner, Democratic candidate for U.S. Senate, received $500,000 in campaign donations in the 24 hours after Gov. Janet Mills entered the race, according to a spokesperson for the campaign.
That’s half of what Mills raised during the same period in a strong kick-off to her bid to unseat five-term Republican Sen. Susan Collins. But the large sum suggests that the entry of a well-known establishment Democrat hasn’t sapped support for the previously unknown oysterman from Sullivan.
Platner, a 40-year-old military veteran, joined the race in August at the urging of labor groups and has quickly risen to be a top contender for the nomination in a crowded Democratic field.
While his previous political experience was limited to a seat on the municipal planning board, his plain-spoken views on wealth inequality, health care and housing have resonated with voters, who have packed his speaking engagements to overflowing across the state.
Platner’s campaign said the wave of donations in the last 24 hours came at a rate of one contribution every eight minutes. Exact amounts are not yet available, but that translates to 180 donations, each averaging $2,778.
BDN writer Michael Shepherd contributed reporting.