Minnesota Rep. Dean Phillips Withdraws from Democratic Primary Challenge, Throws Support Behind President Joe Biden

U.S. Rep. Dean Phillips of Minnesota has decided to end his 2024 Democratic presidential campaign after losing to President Joe Biden in the primary contest.

Phillips announced his endorsement of Biden in an interview with WCCO Radio in Minneapolis.

The 55-year-old congressman, who is one of the wealthiest members of Congress, focused his campaign on advocating for a new generation of Democratic leadership and spent a significant amount of his personal fortune on the bid. However, he failed to connect with Democratic voters.

As the sole elected Democrat to challenge Biden, Phillips’ unsuccessful campaign highlights the strong support for the 81-year-old president among Democratic voters, despite concerns about his age and reelection prospects.

While Phillips criticized Biden for his age, he acknowledged Biden’s qualities in a social media post, pointing out Biden’s decency and wisdom, which he believed were essential in today’s political landscape.

Phillips emphasized the importance of choosing between Biden and Donald Trump, highlighting Biden’s competency and integrity as opposed to the perceived dangers of Trump’s leadership.

Phillips’ decision to endorse Biden likely eliminates the possibility of him running as a third-party candidate on a No Labels ticket.

Despite his efforts to challenge Biden in states like New Hampshire, Phillips struggled to gain support and ultimately finished behind a write-in campaign for Biden. His defeat in primary contests further solidified Biden’s position as the Democratic candidate.

Phillips, who is not seeking reelection in his congressional district, comes from a wealthy background and emphasized his moderate stance during his time in Congress, although he shifted to the left on issues like healthcare while running for president.