WAYZATA, Minn. –Three-term Congressman Dean Phillips announced that he will not seek re-election from MN-3, which spans upscale western Minneapolis suburbs. The announcement clears the way for Phillips to focus on his bid for the Democratic nomination for president. MN-3 is historically Republican, but Phillips has won his three campaigns easily:
> 2022: 59% to 40% over Republican Tom Weiler.
> 2020: 55% to 44% over Republican Kendall Qualls.
> 2018: 55% to 44% over Republican Erik Paulsen.
Phillips’ run to be the Democratic candidate for president is considered a long shot against incumbent Joe Biden. In fact, Phillips has said: “President Biden has done a spectacular job for our country.” Phillips has been consistent a further point — that Biden at 81, is too old. Phillips is 54. The 2024 election, Phillips said, “is not about the past but about the future.” Phillips has been critical of older members of Congress, including Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, 81, and late Senator Dianne Feinstein, 90. Phillips favors term limits.
Earlier: Phillips launches White House campaign
Earlier: No doubt now: Phillips running for White House
Verbatim
Phillips: “My journey to public service began the morning after the 2016 election, when I faced the reality that democracy requires participation — not observation. Seven years have passed, each presenting historic opportunities to practice a brand of optimistic politics that repairs relationships and improves people’s lives. We have met those moments, and after three terms it is time to pass the torch.”