‘Grey’s Anatomy' Star’s Announcement Disappointments Liberals Everywhere
Actor Patrick Dempsey has put an end to speculation about a possible political future, making it clear that he has no intention of running for public office despite growing calls from some Maine residents for him to enter the state's U.S. Senate race.
In an op-ed published by the Portland Press Herald, the Maine native acknowledged that many people have recently encouraged him to consider a Senate campaign. The conversations have intensified as Democratic Senate candidate Graham Platner faces mounting scrutiny over multiple sexual assault allegations that have shaken the race and prompted calls from within his own party for him to withdraw.
While Dempsey said he is grateful for the confidence people have shown in him, he believes he can make a greater difference outside of politics.
Instead of pursuing elected office, Dempsey pointed to the work of the Dempsey Center, the nonprofit organization he founded to provide free support and resources for individuals and families affected by cancer. He said the organization's mission has reinforced his belief that meaningful service often happens far from the political spotlight.
"The Dempsey Center has shown me what's possible when people put aside differences and focus on helping one another," he wrote. "I've watched volunteers, healthcare professionals, small businesses, major corporations, donors and neighbors come together for one purpose: caring for people during some of the hardest moments of their lives."
According to Dempsey, the experience has demonstrated that compassion and service can unite people regardless of political affiliation.
"No one asks who you voted for before offering support," he wrote. "That's the America I know. That's what I want to see in the leader we send to the Senate."
Dempsey also reflected on what he believes are the foundations of a healthy democracy, arguing that elections alone are not enough to sustain the country's political system.
"Democracy depends on more than elections," he wrote. "It depends on trust, accountability, respect for the Constitution and a willingness to believe that people with different opinions are still our fellow Americans."
He concluded the piece on an optimistic note, saying that years of charitable work have strengthened rather than weakened his faith in the country. He described witnessing communities rally around families facing difficult circumstances, strangers stepping forward to care for one another, and countless acts of generosity carried out without any expectation of recognition or reward.
Those moments, he suggested, represent a side of America that often receives far less attention than political conflict.
"Whether you're an elected official, a teacher, a nurse, a business owner, a parent or a volunteer, service begins with one simple question: How can I make someone else's life a little better?" Dempsey wrote.
He then answered the question many Mainers have reportedly been asking in recent weeks with a simple conclusion.
"That's the work I want to keep doing. So no, I'm not running for office."