Patrick Dempsey Declines U.S. Senate Run at 60, Urges Leaders to Put People Before Party
Updated
Updated · Fox News · Jul 9
Patrick Dempsey Declines U.S. Senate Run at 60, Urges Leaders to Put People Before Party
3 articles · Updated · Fox News · Jul 9
Summary
Patrick Dempsey, 60, said in a Portland Press Herald op-ed that he gave a Senate bid “real thought” but decided against running, saying he can serve more effectively through the life and advocacy work he already has.
The "Grey’s Anatomy" actor framed the decision around leadership, calling for empathy, integrity and cooperation, and urging elected officials to “put people before party” and treat public office as service rather than power.
Maine families’ struggles with heating bills, groceries, healthcare and school meals shaped his argument, while his Dempsey Center work with cancer patients reinforced his view that healthcare should not be a partisan issue.
The statement adds detail to Dempsey’s earlier decision not to pursue the Maine Senate seat that drew speculation after Democratic nominee Graham Platner paused his campaign following a sexual assault accusation.