Patrick Dempsey is known to fans as an actor, but his name has recently come up in political circles as a possible candidate to represent Maine in the U.S. Senate race.
The Grey's Anatomy star, 60, was a frontrunner to step in after Democratic nominee Graham Platner dropped out on Wednesday after he was publicly accused of sexual assault by a former girlfriend.
However, while Maine native Patrick has a deep love for the state, he removed his name from the running and confirmed that he will not pursue a seat in the U.S. Senate.
"Over the past several days, I've been asked a question more than once: Would you ever run for the United States Senate?" he wrote in an op-ed published by the Portland Press Herald on Wednesday.
"It's flattering, and I don't take it lightly. I love my home state of Maine. I care deeply about the people who live there and, like so many Americans, I'm concerned about the direction our country is heading."
© WireImagePatrick continued: "I gave it real thought. Not because I was looking for a new career, but because I asked myself an honest question: Could I make a meaningful difference? That question led me to another one I think matters even more. What kind of leadership are we really looking for?"
Patrick shared what he is looking for in a candidate, noting that he wants "someone who leads with empathy. Someone who listens before speaking, who has the courage to work with people they disagree with and who understands that public office isn't about power. It's about service."
He added: "Most of all, I want integrity. That may sound idealistic today, but it shouldn't."
© Getty ImagesPatrick listed off several issues that are "deeply personal" to him, including healthcare and education, but admitted that he felt he could make a greater impact outside of politics, highlighting his work through the Dempsey Center, which provides free support services to people affected by cancer.
"As I reflected on all of this, I kept coming back to one question: Do I truly want to serve in Congress?" he continued.
"After a lot of thought, I realized the answer is no. Not because public service isn't honorable — it absolutely is. But because I believe I can contribute more effectively through the life I've already built.
© Getty Images"The Dempsey Center has shown me what's possible when people put aside differences and focus on helping one another."
Patrick added: "That's the work I want to keep doing. So no, I'm not running for office. But I am asking something of the people who do. Lead with humility. Tell the truth. Put people before party."
The Maine Democratic Party now needs to choose a new nominee to run against Republican Sen. Susan Collins after Graham Platner's withdrawal.
© Getty ImagesThe 41-year-old veteran and oyster farmer has denied all allegations against him, and stated that his decision to drop out of the race was not an admission of wrongdoing.
“We're suspending campaign operations," he said in a video posted on X. "We're not doing it because of the allegations. We're doing it because of the structures that are being taken away from us by those in power."
