Veteran Democratic strategist James Carville has sharply criticized the Democratic Party, particularly in Maine, for what he described as a failure to adhere to fundamental political practices, specifically the vetting of their own candidates. Carville argued on his podcast, "Politics War Room," that the party paid the price for overlooking classic rules, such as conducting comprehensive opposition research on potential flaws within their own ranks.
The comments come in the wake of sexual assault allegations leveled against Maine Senate hopeful Graham Platner. Platner has denied the accusation. Previously, Democratic leaders and liberal commentators had defended Platner against earlier controversies involving his rhetoric and a tattoo associated with Nazis.
Carville attributed the situation to a generational shift within the party, suggesting that younger consultants, untethered by traditional political wisdom, may have contributed to the oversight. "You didn’t vet your own candidate? You mean you didn’t know?" Carville questioned, emphasizing that internal opposition research was once considered paramount. "We used to get our own oppo researchers to do an oppo research book on us. It’s the most important research you do!"
He contrasted this approach with past practices, noting the perceived success of younger strategists who had achieved victories, including unseating an incumbent governor. "It’s so, so '80s to do a briefing on your own candidate to find out what’s wrong with him. But, you know, there are certain rules in politics."
This recent critique stands in stark contrast to Carville's earlier defenses of Platner. Just over a month prior, Carville had spoken in defense of Platner amid previous scandals. He described Platner as a veteran, an oysterman, and someone who had experienced difficulties, suggesting that a "combat veteran who is f---ed up" might be suitable for the Senate. In one instance, he compared the situation to historical alliances, stating that if Franklin D. Roosevelt and Winston Churchill could cooperate with Joseph Stalin, overlooking a tattoo was manageable. He also downplayed an allegation of unwanted physical contact as a common occurrence.
Platner's campaign did not immediately respond to requests for comment. The controversy comes as Maine Democrats face scrutiny over their candidate selection and vetting processes.