Patrick Dempsey Says He Gave “Real Thought” To U.S. Senate Run In Maine, But Decided Against It

July 8, 2026 2:24pm

As Democrats strategize over who could replace Graham Platner on the ballot for U.S. Senate in Maine, one name floated has taken himself out of the running: Patrick Dempsey.

In an op ed in the Portland Press Herald on Wednesday, Dempsey wrote that he gave “real thought” to a potential bid, but decided against it.

Dempsey wrote, “After a lot of thought, I realized the answer is no. Not because public service isn’t honorable — it absolutely is. But because I believe I can contribute more effectively through the life I’ve already built.”

More to come.

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