Actor Patrick Dempsey, known for his role as Dr.

Derek Shepherd on "Grey's Anatomy," has announced he will not be pursuing a Senate bid in his home state of Maine.

Dempsey's decision comes after his name was among those mentioned as a potential replacement for embattled Democratic nominee Graham Platner, who withdrew from the race.

Dempsey, a Maine native, articulated his reasons in an op-ed for the Portland Press Herald, stating, "Do I truly want to serve in Congress?

After a lot of thought, I realized the answer is no." He emphasized that while public service is honorable, he believes he can contribute more effectively through his existing work.

His announcement was made approximately four hours before Platner officially dropped out of the race.

Platner's departure followed a new allegation of sexual assault, which he denies, leading many of his supporters to retract their endorsements.

Prior to this, a survey by Democratic polling firm Tavern Research had included Dempsey's name as a possible contender.

Other individuals whose names have been floated for the Senate seat include former state Senate President Troy Jackson, who has filed paperwork to explore the possibility, and Nirav Shah, former director of Maine’s Center for Disease Control and Prevention.

Maine Secretary of State Shenna Bellows also indicated she would "seriously consider entering this race" if Platner withdrew.

State Rep.

Valli Geiger and state House Speaker Ryan Fecteau have also signaled interest.

Dempsey acknowledged the flattering nature of being considered for the role, expressing his deep affection for Maine and concern for the country's direction.

However, he believes his primary impact can be made through the Dempsey Center, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting cancer patients.

The center was established in honor of his mother, who passed away from ovarian cancer in 2014.

“The Dempsey Center has shown me what’s possible when people put aside differences and focus on helping one another,” Dempsey wrote, highlighting its non-partisan approach to care.

This development matters to the audience because it clarifies the political landscape in Maine following a high-profile withdrawal from the Senate race.

The state Democratic Party has since announced plans to hold a nominating convention to select a new candidate to replace Platner.