politics
Patrick Dempsey Says He Will Not Run for Maine Senate Seat
Actor Patrick Dempsey announced July 8, 2026, that he will not seek the U.S. Senate seat in Maine. He published an editorial explaining his choice to focus on existing work instead of Congress. The decision ends speculation about replacing Democratic nominee Graham Platner.
Jul 8, 5:47 PM·1m read2 sources
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Actor Patrick Dempsey said he will not run for the U.S. Senate seat in Maine, ABC News reported. Dempsey published an editorial in the Portland Press Herald on July 8, 2026, stating his decision after reflection on public service.
Dempsey wrote. “After a lot of thought, I realized the answer is no. Not because public service isn’t honorable — it absolutely is. ” Dempsey grew up in the Lewiston-Auburn area of Maine and founded The Dempsey Center, which provides free care to people impacted by cancer.
He wrote that the candidate should offer “a new approach to how we govern ourselves” and added, “Most of all, I want integrity. ” The announcement ends speculation that Dempsey might replace Graham Platner, who secured the Democratic nomination in June 2026. Platner, an oyster farmer and Marine veteran, has paused his campaign and faces an accusation from a former girlfriend that he denies.
He is running against Republican Sen. Susan Collins in the November 2026 election.
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