The politics of hypocrisy: How scandal is treated with selective outrage

Both parties face a slew of candidate controversies as the mid‑terms approach

Atlanta, Ga. – Longtime ultraconservative radio host Erick Erickson, who has been a staple of Atlanta’s talk‑radio scene for decades, issued a scathing criticism of both major parties this week. In a recent broadcast, Erickson compared candidates from the Democratic and Republican parties to a “crap sandwich,” saying each side presents a poor option, points to the other’s flaws, and insists voters must choose theirs because the alternative is even worse.

Erickson’s remarks came as national attention turned to a handful of political controversies that have surfaced in the run‑up to the 2026 mid‑term elections.

1. Maine Senate race: The rise and fall of Graham Platner

Graham Platner, a relatively unknown Maine Senate candidate, drew national attention for his distinctive Nazi tattoo and an allegation that his former girlfriend accused him of rape. The story first surfaced in early 2024, prompting a wave of criticism from across the political spectrum.

Initially, the endorsement of Platner by prominent Democratic leaders Elizabeth Warren and Bernie Sanders attracted scrutiny. Both Warren and Sanders later withdrew their support when the allegations gained traction, citing concerns about Platner’s character and suitability for public office. The controversy underscores how quickly a candidate can be disavowed after a damaging revelation.

2. North Carolina: Rep. Chuck Edwards and the ethics censure

In North Carolina, Republican Representative Chuck Edwards faced a series of accusations involving a hostile work environment and sexual harassment of staffers. In March 2024, the House ethics committee called for Edwards’ censure after discovering that the congressman had showered two female staff members with gifts—including jewelry worth over $1,000, designer purses, a kitchen appliance, and a vacation—despite the allegations of inappropriate conduct.

Senator Ted Budd of North Carolina urged Edwards to withdraw his bid for re‑election. Edwards complied, announcing he would not run again and stepping down from the race in April 2024. The incident has prompted a broader conversation about the conduct of elected officials and the role of ethics committees in holding them accountable.

3. Michigan: Democratic Senate nominee Abdul El‑Sayed

Abdul El‑Sayed, the Democratic Senate nominee in Michigan, faced backlash after making sympathetic remarks about a terrorist who attacked a synagogue. In May 2024, El‑Sayed issued a public apology and clarified his position. His campaign also featured far‑left streamer Hasan Piker, who has previously made controversial statements regarding the September 11 attacks.

The episode illustrates how candidates’ statements and associations can become flashpoints for voter backlash, especially when they touch on sensitive security and religious topics.

4. Columbia, New Jersey: Darializa Avila Chevalier

Darializa Avila Chevalier, a local activist who won a council seat in Columbia with the backing of New York’s socialist mayor Zohran Mamdani, has attracted attention for a number of controversial positions. Chevalier has publicly called President Joe Biden a “rapist,” advocated the abolition of police and prisons, and was arrested in September 2024 for leading a takeover of Columbia’s Hamilton Hall. Her rhetoric and actions have drawn criticism from both political parties.

5. Texas: Impeachment of Republican Attorney General Ken Paxton

In Texas, Republican Attorney General Ken Paxton was impeached by a majority of his own party members in 2024. Paxton was charged with a series of alleged misconducts, including misuse of official resources and conflicts of interest. The impeachment proceedings were seen by many as a significant political rebuke within the GOP.

6. Broader context

Other stories have also colored the political landscape. Former President Donald Trump’s scheduled meeting with mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani in New York, part of a high‑stakes push ahead of the mid‑terms, has been reported. In addition, political analyst Charlie Cook has highlighted the unpredictable nature of independent voters, noting that they tend to shift their support more readily than party loyalists.

The overall tenor of the political debate has become increasingly polarized, with both parties accused of “selective outrage” and an eagerness to demonize the opposition. Erickson, who has said he has faced threats and harassment for his views, laments the erosion of the civil discourse that characterized earlier political eras.

Looking ahead

As the 2026 mid‑term elections draw closer, the spotlight remains on the integrity and character of candidates from both parties. While the controversies above represent a fraction of the overall field, they illustrate how allegations of misconduct and extremist positions can shape voter perceptions and ultimately influence turnout. Voters who focus on character, as many commentators suggest, may find the current political climate particularly challenging to navigate.