Navy SEAL Jared Hudson Calls Out Graham Platner Over Use of Kik App

June 2, 2026 - BIRMINGHAM, Ala. - Navy SEAL and U.S. Senate candidate Jared Hudson, founder of a nationally recognized anti‑child‑trafficking nonprofit, publicly criticized fellow candidate Graham Platner for his reported use of Kik, a messaging app long associated with child exploitation and online fraud.

Hudson, who served multiple combat tours before launching his nonprofit to combat human trafficking, said Platner's use of the platform raises serious concerns about judgment and security.

"Last week, I shared my concerns about Graham Platner serving in the Senate after he mocked a Purple Heart recipient," Hudson said. "This week, I find out that he was using social media messaging app Kik to sext with women."

Hudson referenced his 2024 interview with podcaster Shawn Ryan, in which he warned about Kik's role in child exploitation networks.

"Back in 2024, I told Shawn Ryan about the dangers of platforms like Kik and how sexual predators were using it to prey on children so they can extort and blackmail the most innocent," Hudson said. "I've hunted down these predators for years and Kik is one of the leading platforms that they use."

Hudson added that the app's reputation makes Platner's reported use "unsettling and disturbing," citing potential national‑security implications.

"Just imagine how Russia, China or Iran could extort and blackmail a U.S. Senator like Platner?" he said. "The Democrat Party should take a long look in the mirror and do a better job of finding their gimmick candidates. Someone with the judgment of Platner should be nowhere near an elected office."

Background

Hudson's nonprofit has assisted law enforcement agencies in tracking and rescuing victims of trafficking across the United States. His Senate campaign has emphasized protecting children from online exploitation and strengthening national security.

Platner, who has faced criticism from veterans' groups in recent weeks, has not publicly responded to Hudson's remarks.

Hudson faces Congressman Barry Moore (R-Enterprise) in the June 16 Republican primary for U.S. Senate.