On Thursday, July 23, 2026, ABC's daytime talk show "The View" featured a tense discussion among co-hosts regarding Maine Senate candidate Graham Platner, who has been embroiled in multiple controversies, including a Nazi-linked tattoo and allegations of sexual abuse.

Co-host Alyssa Farah Griffin openly criticized some of her fellow panelists for defending Platner despite these issues. She argued that the liberal support for Platner was making it more difficult for the Democratic Party to secure the Maine Senate seat. Griffin stated that the panel had debated Platner's candidacy extensively and expressed skepticism about the quality of candidates from both parties, saying, "I don’t know that I’m convinced either party puts up the best people. I’m just going to be honest. I love you guys, but a lot of you guys defended a guy with a Nazi tattoo who was credibly accused of a number of things."

Co-host Sunny Hostin acknowledged that she had supported Platner multiple times in recent months despite the controversies, including the tattoo. However, Hostin said Platner should exit the race following multiple allegations of sexual abuse. This stance led to a heated moment on the show, with Hostin declaring she would "hold my nose" and vote for the scandal-plagued candidate.

In response, co-host Joy Behar argued that candidate controversies did not necessarily make things harder for Republicans. Griffin also noted that she would not support Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, indicating her critical view of candidates across party lines.

During the exchange, Whoopi Goldberg claimed she was unaware that Platner's tattoo was Nazi-linked, stating that no one had informed her of this fact.

The debate highlighted broader questions about party loyalty, candidate vetting, and the challenges facing both major parties in presenting viable candidates to voters.

Sources