Minnesota DFL Releases Statement Regarding Congressman Dean Phillips Declining Reelection Bid, Looks to Retain Seat Amidst GOP’s Hopes for a Comeback

(KNSI) — The chair of the Minnesota Democratic-Farmer-Labor Party issued a statement about Congressman Dean Phillips (D-CD3) not running for reelection when his term expires in 2025.

Phillips has set his sights on challenging President Joe Biden for the party’s presidential nomination, saying the country needs a younger alternative. President Biden just turned 81. If elected in 2024, he would be 82 on Inauguration Day. Phillips, meanwhile, is 54.

Chairman Ken Martin said, “We appreciate Dean’s service and his 100% voting record supporting President Biden’s historic record of accomplishments. There are a number of talented DFLers who would be great representatives for Minnesota’s third district and who understand the importance of reelecting President Biden and keeping this seat in DFL hands. I’m confident we will have a strong and loyal nominee for the DFL Party at the conclusion of the process.”

Meanwhile, the Minnesota GOP says it looks forward to taking back that seat. It was held by a Republican since 1961 until Phillips defeated Erik Paulson in his reelection bid for a sixth term in 2018.

The state’s congressional seats are evenly split between Democrats and Republicans.

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