U.S. Representative Dean Phillips of Minnesota, who briefly considered challenging President Joe Biden for the Democratic presidential nomination, announced on Friday that he will not seek reelection.
The 54-year-old millionaire businessman and three-term congressman, who previously expressed concerns about Biden’s approval ratings and age, stated that it’s time for change and a new generation to lead.
Phillips shared his decision in a post on the X social media platform, linking to an interview with the Minnesota Star Tribune.
He described running again as “unproductive and uncomfortable” in the context of his earlier nomination bid. Phillips voiced concerns that Democrats were on track for a “disaster” in the upcoming November elections, citing polls indicating Biden trailing Republican front-runner Donald Trump in key states.
Despite his earlier consideration as a challenger, Phillips acknowledges the uphill battle against Biden’s established position, abundant resources, official party support, and alterations to the party’s nominating calendar.
Phillips, first elected in 2018 and reelected in 2020 and 2022, concludes it’s time for a new chapter.
Source: thehill.com
