Representative Dean Phillips has backtracked on the possibility of running on a No Labels third-party ticket, emphasizing that he would not consider such an option if it risks aiding Donald Trump’s return to the White House. Phillips, who had speculated about the idea a day earlier, asserted that he “cannot imagine” running on a third-party line if it could benefit Trump. His chief strategist, Jeff Weaver, also dismissed the notion of Phillips running outside the Democratic Party, asserting that “he’s not” pursuing a No Labels candidacy.
Shift in Position
The Minnesota congressman left the door open to a third-party bid on Sunday, suggesting that if certain candidates, like Vivek Ramaswamy or Ron DeSantis, were at the top of a third-party ticket, it could draw votes away from Trump. However, Phillips clarified on Monday that he “cannot imagine” such a path being successful based on available data. He expressed regret for not making this clearer in his earlier remarks.
No Labels Unity Push
No Labels, a centrist group advocating for a unity presidential ticket, has been working on ballot access and engaging with donors. Phillips, aligning tonally with the group, criticized partisan divisions and highlighted his involvement in the No Labels-allied Problem Solvers Caucus. While No Labels has not disclosed its targeted candidates, the group aims to avoid playing a spoiler role and indirectly assisting Trump.
Phillips’ Presidential Vision
Phillips, presenting himself as a centrist, emphasized bipartisan collaboration and criticized extreme positions. He envisioned a presidency with a bipartisan cabinet, common ground dinners at the White House, and a focus on debt reduction and border security. While addressing traditionally Democratic policy points, such as negotiating drug prices and increasing the Social Security tax cap, Phillips stressed the need to move away from extremes on both sides.
Campaign Continuation
Despite the uncertainty surrounding his candidacy, Phillips announced plans to continue his campaign in South Carolina following New Hampshire’s unsanctioned primary. The campaign is set to release details of upcoming events in the Palmetto state.
COMMENTS