An alleged Nazi Tattoo and dwindling SNAP benefits: Five key political updates

Grayson Rogers, Staff Writer • October 27, 2025

Democratic Maine Senate candidate Graham Platner speaks at a town hall in Ogunquit, Maine, Wednesday, Oct. 22, 2025.

Senate Candidate Graham Platner Faces Scandal

Maine Senate Candidate Graham Platner is facing several scandals recently, including an alleged Nazi tattoo and resurfaced Reddit posts. Platner apologized for the old comments, saying he was dealing with PTSD and had “the crude mindset of an infantryman.”

He posted a photo of a cover-up of the tattoo and accused his opponent, Gov. Janet Mills, of being behind the attacks.

Read more: AP News

With the government shutdown threatening to pause the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program beginning next week, grocers fear their sales will decline while food banks anticipate a higher volume of people seeking food help. (Photo by: AP Video/Sophie Bates)

USDA Halts SNAP Benefits Amid Government Shutdown

The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced that beginning Nov. 1, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits will be suspended because of the ongoing government shutdown.

In a statement posted on its website, the department said, “Bottom line, the well has run dry. At this time, there will be no benefits issued Nov. 1. We are approaching an inflection point for Senate Democrats.”

Read more: AP News

California Gov. Gavin Newsom smiles after signing legislation related to student literacy. (Photo by: AP Photo/Damian Dovarganes)

Newsom Will Consider Presidential Run After Midterms

California Gov. Gavin Newsom confirmed he will consider a 2028 presidential run after the midterm elections. Newsom has frequently clashed with the Trump administration, particularly after the National Guard were deployed in Los Angeles earlier this year.

Jeffries Endorses Zohran Mamdani for New York City Mayor

Months after New York City’s mayoral primary elections, House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries endorsed Zohran Mamdani for mayor.

In his statement, Jeffries acknowledged their differing views but said Republican extremism is a “national nightmare.”

Read more: AP News

U.S. military senior leadership listen as President Donald Trump speaks at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Tuesday, Sept. 30, 2025 in Quantico, Va. (Photo by: AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

Pentagon Accepts $130 Million Donation to Pay Troops

The Pentagon accepted a $130 million anonymous donation to help pay troops during the government shutdown. President Donald Trump said the donor was a friend of his who wished to remain anonymous.

The legality of the donation is under review.