Patrick Dempsey finds it "flattering" he's been asked to run for a seat in the US Senate.
The Grey's Anatomy star cares "deeply" about his home state of Maine and its residents and while he has given "real thought" to questions of him moving into a political career, he's ultimtely decided against it for now.
In an op-ed for the Portland Press Herald, he wrote: “Over the past several days, I’ve been asked a question more than once: Would you ever run for the United States Senate?
“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.
"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?"
Questioning himself led to the 62-year-old actor thinking about the kind of leadership his state needs.
He mused: "That question led me to another one I think matters even more. What kind of leadership are we really looking for?"
“I want 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.
"Most of all, I want integrity. That may sound idealistic today, but it shouldn’t."
After highlighting the importance of community, healthcare and education, Patrick ultimately ruled himself out of running.
He wrote: “As I reflected on all of this, I kept coming back to one question: Do I truly want to serve in Congress?
“After a lot of thought, I realised the answer is no. Not because public service isn’t honourable — it absolutely is. But because I believe I can contribute more effectively through the life I’ve already built."
Patrick - who founded The Dempsey Center for cancer care and support in 2008 - is keen to do what he can to make people's lives better in other ways.
He wrote: "Whether you’re an elected official, a teacher, a nurse, a business owner, a parent or a volunteer, service begins with one simple question: How can I make someone else’s life a little better?
"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.
"Remember that public office is a privilege not a career path and that leadership isn’t measured by how loudly you speak or how often you’re on television. It’s measured by whether people’s lives are better because you served.
"That’s the kind of leadership Maine deserves. It’s the kind of leadership America deserves, too."
Patrick's op-ed came after Democratic candidate Graham Platner confirmed he was dropping out of the race after being publicly accused of sexual assault, an allegation he has denied.
