Democratic Congressman Freddy Phillips recently announced that he will not be seeking re-election for his seat in the House of Representatives.
The Congressman, who was running for President, had been viewed as one of the top contenders for the Democratic nomination. His announcement has come as a surprise to many and has left the 2020 Democratic presidential field open for a new front-runner.
Rep. Phillips is a committed voice for progressive causes in Congress and his progressive platform had gained him a great deal of support. His presidential run had been a favorite among younger Democrats and spiraling support from the liberal wing of the party.
In making the announcement to not seek re-election, Rep. Phillips said:
“I am grateful for the opportunity to serve the people of my district over the past three terms. As I enter the final portion of my term in Congress, I must focus on making sure my constituents’ needs are met in the most efficient manner possible. For that reason, I have decided that I will not be seeking reelection in November.”
Though he is not running for re-election, Phillips appears committed to staying involved in politics. Phillips did not rule out a return to the political fray in the future, noting that he is interested in “exploring other avenues in which I can make a meaningful difference in this country and abroad.”
The decision to step away from public life is a difficult one, but Rep. Phillips’ commitment to public service demonstrate his willingness to prioritize the needs of the public. As he nears the end of his term, his good example will serve as an inspiration to others in government and the public in general.