Taya Kyle, widow of Navy SEAL Chris Kyle, released a video statement slamming Colorado Democratic Senate candidate Graham Platner after he made disparaging remarks about her late husband during a campaign event.
Chris Kyle, whose story became the basis for the film “American Sniper,” served four tours in Iraq and was credited with over 160 confirmed kills before being murdered by a fellow veteran he was trying to help in 2013. His autobiography became a bestseller, and Clint Eastwood’s film adaptation earned six Academy Award nominations.
Platner, running in Colorado’s 2026 Senate race, reportedly criticized Kyle’s military service during a recent campaign appearance, calling into question the legacy of one of America’s most decorated snipers. The specific comments have sparked backlash from military families and veterans groups across the state.
In her video response, Taya Kyle defended her husband’s character and service record. She pointed out that Chris Kyle dedicated his post-military life to helping veterans struggling with PTSD, the very work he was doing when he was killed at a Texas gun range in 2013.
“My husband served his country with honor and came home to serve his fellow veterans,” Kyle said in the video. “For anyone to use his name and his service as a political football shows exactly the kind of character we don’t need representing Colorado or any other state.”
The controversy comes as Democrats face growing criticism for their messaging on military and national security issues heading into the 2026 midterms. Colorado, traditionally a purple state that has trended blue in recent cycles, remains competitive in statewide races. Veterans make up roughly 8 percent of the state’s population.
Platner’s campaign has not issued a formal apology or clarification of his remarks. His opponent in the Democratic primary quickly distanced himself from the comments, calling them “inappropriate and disrespectful to a family that has sacrificed everything.”
Conservative commentators and military advocacy groups amplified Kyle’s video across social media, with several calling for Platner to drop out of the race. The incident highlights the political risk candidates face when their rhetoric crosses into criticism of individual service members rather than policy debates about military operations.
The Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee declined to comment on whether it would continue supporting Platner’s candidacy. Colorado’s primary is scheduled for late June, giving voters a chance to weigh in on whether Platner’s remarks disqualify him from serious consideration.
Key Points
- Taya Kyle released video condemning Democratic candidate Graham Platner for criticizing her late husband’s military service
- Chris Kyle served four tours in Iraq and was killed in 2013 while helping veterans with PTSD
- The controversy puts Platner’s campaign in jeopardy ahead of Colorado’s June primary as veterans groups demand accountability
https://www.thegatewaypundit.com/2026/05/american-sniper-widow-calls-democrat-senate-candidate-graham/ – May 25, 2026
