Democratic Rep. Dean Phillips of Minnesota's 3rd Congressional District has announced that he will not seek reelection to Congress in 2024. Phillips, who is also running for president and challenging Joe Biden in the primary, made the announcement on Friday. In a statement, Phillips reflected on his journey to public service, emphasizing the importance of participation in democracy. He believes that after three terms in Congress, it is time to pass the torch and give younger voices an opportunity to lead. Phillips has been supportive of Biden but believes that the Democratic Party needs new perspectives and ideas to prevent another potential victory for Donald Trump in the next election.

Phillips' decision to run against Biden has faced criticism from prominent Democrats, including Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, who called it a "political sideshow." However, Ken Martin, chair of Minnesota Democrats, expressed appreciation for Phillips' service and his support of President Biden's accomplishments. Martin believes that there are other Democrats who understand the importance of reelecting Biden and keeping Phillips' congressional seat in Democratic hands.

On the Republican side, Anna Mathews, the executive director of the Republican Party of Minnesota, stated that Phillips has been openly acknowledging the potential negative impact of Biden's policies on Democrats in the upcoming election. The GOP is looking forward to bringing Republican representation back to Minnesota's 3rd Congressional District.

Phillips' term in Congress will come to an end on January 3, 2025. He is considered a moderate and represents the largely well-to-do suburbs of Minneapolis. Prior to his election in 2018, the district had a history of electing Republicans to the U.S. House. Phillips is one of the wealthiest members of Congress and has a background in business, including running his stepfather's Phillips Distilling Company and gelato maker Talenti. He is also the grandson of the late advice columnist Pauline Phillips, known as "Dear Abby."

Phillips' decision not to seek reelection adds another layer of intrigue to the race in Minnesota's 3rd Congressional District. With his presidential campaign, he has challenged the notion of Biden's electability, especially considering concerns about his age and approval ratings. Phillips believes that a new generation of Democrats is needed to address the challenges facing the country. As the race unfolds, it remains to be seen who will step up to fill Phillips' seat and how it will impact the dynamics of the district and the Democratic Party as a whole.

Trisha Ahmed is a reporter for the Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative, a program that places journalists in local newsrooms to cover under-covered issues. Her reporting on this story will continue to unfold, and updates can be found on WCCO.com.