Patrick Dempsey said Wednesday he will not run for Maine’s U.S. Senate seat, ending speculation that the actor could step in as Democrats scramble for options.
In a Portland Press Herald editorial, Dempsey said he concluded he could contribute more through the life and work he has already built than by serving in Congress.
The opening emerged after Democratic nominee Graham Platner paused his campaign to consider withdrawing following a former girlfriend’s sexual assault accusation, which he denies.
Platner, an oyster farmer and Marine veteran, won the June nomination and had been set to challenge Republican Sen. Susan Collins in November.
Dempsey, who did not endorse another contender, said Maine’s next senator should bring integrity and address housing, healthcare and education.