Patrick Dempsey, the actor best known for his role as a neurosurgeon on "Grey's Anatomy," has ruled out entering Maine's Senate race, despite his name circulating among potential Democratic replacements for the party's troubled nominee.
Dempsey announced his decision Wednesday in an op-ed published by the Portland Press Herald, ending speculation that had intensified after a new sexual assault allegation against current Democratic nominee Graham Platner prompted several of his congressional supporters to withdraw their endorsements. Platner has denied the allegation and is weighing whether to drop out of the race.
The Maine native addressed the question directly in his column: "Do I truly want to serve in Congress? After a lot of thought, I realized the answer is no." He explained that while public service holds value, he believes his existing work allows him to contribute more effectively to his state.
Recent polling by Tavern Research, a Democratic firm, had floated Dempsey's name as a possible contender alongside other notable Maine figures. Former state Senate President Troy Jackson and Nirav Shah, a former director of Maine's Center for Disease Control and Prevention, were also mentioned. Both men lost bids in the state's Democratic gubernatorial primary this year. Jackson filed paperwork Tuesday to explore a potential Senate campaign.
Other candidates have shown more concrete interest. Maine Secretary of State Shenna Bellows said Tuesday she would "seriously consider entering this race" if Platner steps aside. State Rep. Valli Geiger and state House Speaker Ryan Fecteau have signaled interest without committing to formal campaigns.
In his op-ed, Dempsey acknowledged the appeal of the opportunity. "It's flattering, and I don't take it lightly. I love my home state of Maine," he wrote. He expressed concern about the nation's direction and said he cares deeply about Maine residents. However, he pointed to his nonprofit work as his primary contribution to the state.
The Dempsey Center, which he founded in honor of his mother who died from ovarian cancer in 2014, supports and provides care to cancer patients. Dempsey emphasized the center's mission of uniting people across differences. "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," he wrote.
If Platner exits the race before Monday, the state Democratic Party committee would have until July 27 to name a replacement nominee.
Author Sarah Mitchell: "Dempsey's decision to stay in his lane and focus on cancer care is refreshing in an era when celebrities and wealthy figures treat elected office like their next big project."
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