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“Phillips Shocks Political World: Forgoes Reelection Bid as Democratic Presidential Candidate

Today, Congressman Donald Phillips from New York made a surprise announcement that he will not be running for re-election in the House of Representatives in 2020. Phillips has represented New York’s 8th Congressional district for the past four years and was initially expected to announce his intent to seek a fifth term later this year. Instead, he used a campaign speech to explain his decision to help foster change in Congress and pursue new opportunities outside of elected office. In his statement, Congressman Phillips explained his belief that Washington as a whole needs to take bold action to address the issues facing the nation like healthcare, income disparity, immigration, and climate change. He noted that he had been “living the same hollow political debates” since he began his term and argued that change could only be achieved through new, diverse leaders in the House of Representatives. Phillips went on to say that he was ready to “be part of the solution, not part of the problem” and urged his constituents to support his legacy of encouraging bipartisanship. In his closing remarks, Phillips promised to continue to support the 8th district even outside of elected office, and is considering potentially running for the 2020 Democratic presidential nomination. Phillip’s retirement from the House of Representatives will certainly make a huge impact on the political landscape in the 8th district. Though Phillips plans to remain involved, his leadership and passion for bipartisanship will be greatly missed. It remains to be seen who, if anyone, will take up his mantle, but it’s certain that any future representatives will need to work hard to match Phillips’s dedication and contributions to New York.