Rep. Dean Phillips (D-MN) announced that he has laid off a large number of his campaign staff. In a post to X on Friday evening, he shared a video in which he explained that the layoffs had to be done, as his campaign could not raise enough funds.
“I found it almost impossible to raise enough to do this campaign the way I want. And today, sadly, I had to announce layoffs to a lot of my staff members,” he stated.
The caption for the post read, “I love running for President, but today I had to make some tough decisions. But with 75% of Americans saying Trump is too corrupt and Biden is too old, I’m not giving up!”
I love running for President, but today I had to make some tough decisions.
But with 75% of Americans saying Trump is too corrupt and Biden is too old, I’m not giving up!
If you’re ready for change, join me at https://t.co/L4Hf3zEZKv! pic.twitter.com/mQleNnh2vs
— Dean Phillips (@deanbphillips) February 16, 2024
However, Phillips did not indicate he will be dropping out of the race altogether, as he said, “I’m going to continue this journey as long as you want this journey continued. I’m not giving up, I’m gonna continue. I’m on the ballot in 43 states. Our country is desperate for change. If you still believe that we can do better please consider supporting in my campaign.”
Phillips launched his presidential campaign in October, presenting himself as a younger alternative to President Joe Biden for the Democratic Party. His campaign has not done so great, as Biden beat him by a huge margin in the New Hampshire and South Carolina Democratic primaries. As for the Nevada Democratic primary, he did not make it to the ballot.
Phillips’ decision to lay off some of his staff comes about a week after another longshot Democratic presidential candidate Marianne Williamson suspended her campaign. Last Wednesday, Williamson announced that it was time to drop her bid, saying, “We did what we could to shed some light in some very darkened times. For that I will always be so grateful.”
Phillips offered support for Williamson after her announcement, writing, “Marianne Williamson is a woman of courage, strength, and compassion for the country who has been grossly mistreated by a system designed to do just that. I’m honored to have run alongside her, and will carry our shared principles forward with fortitude. We’re grateful for you, Marianne. This isn’t over.”