Patrick Dempsey, known for his role as Dr. Derek Shepherd on the TV show “Grey’s Anatomy,” has confirmed he will not run for the Senate race in Maine. His name was considered as a potential replacement for Graham Platner, the Democratic nominee facing sexual assault allegations.
Dempsey, a Maine native, explained in an op-ed for the Portland Press Herald that he decided against pursuing a Congressional role after careful consideration. He wrote, “Do I truly want to serve in Congress? After a lot of thought, I realized the answer is no.” While he acknowledges the honor of public service, Dempsey believes his contributions are more effective through his existing ventures.
Platner’s position is becoming increasingly tenuous due to the allegations against him, which he denies. Support from his Congressional allies is waning. Prior to this development, Tavern Research, a Democratic polling firm, included Dempsey among possible candidates, alongside Troy Jackson and Nirav Shah, who both lost bids in the Democratic gubernatorial primary.
Jackson has taken steps to explore replacing Platner, while Maine Secretary of State Shenna Bellows has expressed willingness to enter the race if Platner exits. Other potential candidates are state Rep. Valli Geiger and state House Speaker Ryan Fecteau, though none have confirmed intentions to run.
In his op-ed, Dempsey shared his love for Maine and concern for America’s future. He emphasized his belief in the impact of his work with the Dempsey Center, a nonprofit supporting cancer patients, as his preferred method of contributing positively. “The Dempsey Center has shown me what’s possible when people put aside differences and focus on helping one another,” he wrote.
Dempsey hopes for an America where leaders prioritize unity and support, regardless of political affiliations. If Platner withdraws by Monday, the state Democratic Party committee will have until July 27 to nominate a new candidate.