Patrick Dempsey Declines Senate Run As Democrats Face Uncertainty in Maine

Patrick Dempsey, known for his role as Dr. Derek Shepherd in ‘Grey’s Anatomy,’ has decided against running for the Senate in Maine. This comes after discussions about his potential candidacy following Graham Platner’s possible exit from the race.

In an op-ed for the Portland Press Herald, Dempsey explained his decision. He critically assessed whether he truly wanted to serve in Congress and concluded that he would not pursue the opportunity.

“I kept coming back to one question: Do I truly want to serve in Congress? After a lot of thought, I realized the answer is no,” Dempsey expressed in the publication.

Dempsey clarified that his choice wasn’t due to a lack of respect for public service. He believes he contributes more effectively through his established endeavors, including his work at the Dempsey Center, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting cancer patients.

The situation surrounding Platner involves new allegations of sexual assault, which he refutes. These claims have led several Congressional supporters to withdraw their endorsements.

A poll from Tavern Research, a Democratic firm, previously included Dempsey among other potential candidates. Troy Jackson, former State Senate President, and Nirav Shah, former Maine CDC Director, were listed but both failed in gubernatorial primaries this year. Jackson has taken steps to explore replacing Platner.

Maine Secretary of State Shenna Bellows expressed her willingness to join the race if Platner withdraws. Others like Shah, State Rep. Valli Geiger, and House Speaker Ryan Fecteau have signaled interest but not confirmed candidacies.

Dempsey acknowledged the considerations he made when approached about the Senate run.

“It’s flattering, and I don’t take it lightly. I love my home state of Maine,” he shared. “I care deeply about the people who live there and, like so many Americans, I’m concerned about the direction our country is heading.”

Through the Dempsey Center, named after his late mother, he aims to make an impact in Maine. He emphasized the importance of unity and support over political affiliations.

“The Dempsey Center has shown me what’s possible when people put aside differences and focus on helping one another,” Dempsey remarked. “No one asks who you voted for before offering support. That’s the America I know. That’s what I want to see in the leader we send to the Senate.”

If Platner withdraws before Monday, the state’s Democratic Party committee has until July 27 to nominate a replacement.