Graham Platner’s downfall reminds us: toxic masculinity isn’t leadership 

Graham Platner’s exit from the Maine Senate race has once again put toxic masculinity at the center of our political conversation. His withdrawal reflects a broader struggle over what kind of leadership Americans are willing to reward. 

The battle over masculinity may be one of the defining political forces of the 2026 midterms. We’re at an inflection point in gender politics, with the rise of the “manosphere” reshaping political discourse, expanding President Trump’s appeal among young male voters, and normalizing attitudes toward women that were once widely rejected. 

Platner is just the latest example of a culture that continues to excuse, protect and promote powerful men despite credible allegations and clear warning signs. Again and again, women are told to stay quiet, wait their turn, or accept that accountability can come later.

Research from Penn State University found that adherence to “hegemonic masculinity” independently predicted support for Trump in both 2016 and 2020, even after accounting for political party affiliation, gender, race and education. The researchers define hegemonic masculinity as the belief that men should dominate positions of power, be mentally, physically and emotionally tough, and reject traits perceived as feminine or gay. 

When political strength becomes synonymous with domination rather than accountability, allegations of abuse are more easily dismissed — and survivors more easily ignored. 

That dynamic has only intensified. In 2024, young men shifted sharply to the right, moving 15 percentage points toward Republicans compared with 2020. Appearances on podcasts such as Joe Rogan’s helped Trump........

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