Minnesota Democratic Rep. Dean Phillips has announced that he will not be seeking reelection to Congress in 2024. The announcement comes as he is challenging President Joe Biden for their party’s presidential nomination. Despite serving three terms, Phillips said, “It is time to pass the torch.”
Unity Over Partisanship
In a statement released on Friday, Phillips emphasized the need for unity and co-operation, urging a move away from divisive politics. He stated, “No party has a monopoly on solutions, and we must stop fighting one another and begin fighting for one another.” The congressman warned that America is facing a “crisis of cooperation, common sense, and truth,” stressing the importance of making the right choices for the future.
Despite his call for unity, some fellow Democrats have criticized Phillips, particularly since he announced his primary bid against President Biden. The incumbent president has rarely commented on the challenge from Phillips, although the White House issued a statement acknowledging Phillips’ support for the Biden-Harris legislative agenda. Phillips’ decision to run for president is driven by his desire to strengthen the Democratic ticket amid low approval ratings for the Biden administration.
Impact of Statements
Phillips recently issued an apology for comments made about Vice President Kamala Harris, in which he suggested that she was not well-prepared for her role. The issue sparked significant backlash within the Democratic Party, with some calling for Phillips to refrain from commenting on the vice president.
Concerns Over Donor Support
Earlier in November, CNBC reported that Phillips has been struggling to garner support from major donors in Minnesota. Reports suggest that some of his previous financial backers have even requested refunds of their donations. This lack of support raises questions about the viability of Phillips’ future political endeavors.
A Move Away from Congress
Phillips’ decision to not seek reelection means that the Democratic National Committee member Ron Harris has announced a primary campaign for Phillips’ district. Phillips, who was able to flip Minnesota’s Third Congressional District blue in 2018, is a member of the bipartisan Problem Solvers Caucus. His current term in the House is set to end on January 3, 2025.
Ultimately, Phillips’ announcement and his ongoing challenge to President Biden signal a significant shift in the political landscape. As the race for the Democratic presidential nomination continues, it remains to be seen how Phillips’ decision will impact his political future and the broader dynamics within the Democratic Party.
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