Veteran Democratic strategist James Carville is making headlines after offering a remarkably unusual endorsement of Maine Senate candidate Graham Platner, even comparing support for the Democrat to the United States partnering with Soviet dictator Joseph Stalin during World War II.

Carville, known for his blunt and often controversial political commentary, praised Platner’s military background while taking aim at longtime Republican Sen. Susan Collins.

“He’s f---ed up, he’s been shot at, he’s a veteran, he’s a little bit weird, he’s an oysterman,” Carville said while describing Platner. He then contrasted the Democrat with Collins, saying, “Then his opponent, I can hardly say her name without the utter contempt dripping, Susan Collins, whose spine reminds me of a blueberry jelly from Maine.”

Carville went on to argue that perhaps the Senate needs “a combat veteran right on that Senate floor who is f---ed up,” continuing his unconventional pitch for the Democratic candidate.

The comments quickly drew attention not only because of Carville’s colorful language, but also because he compared supporting Platner to America’s wartime alliance with Stalin. For many voters, comparing a political endorsement to working alongside one of history’s most notorious dictators is certainly an interesting campaign strategy—though perhaps not the one most consultants would recommend.

The remarks underscore the growing intensity of political battles as Democrats search for ways to challenge Republican incumbents. Meanwhile, Sen. Susan Collins remains one of the most recognized Republican figures in Maine politics and continues to be a frequent target of criticism from the left.

As the race moves forward, voters will ultimately decide whether Carville’s unusual endorsement helps Platner’s campaign or simply becomes another memorable moment in an increasingly heated political season.