Minnesota Congressman Dean Phillips, a relatively unknown figure on the national stage, is reportedly gearing up for a long-shot campaign to primary President Joe Biden in New Hampshire. According to the Guardian, the New Hampshire secretary of state's office has confirmed that Phillips plans to file paperwork to get on the primary ballot on Friday.

Despite the forthcoming announcement, the Phillips campaign has remained tight-lipped and did not respond to requests for comment. However, it has been noted that Phillips has previously cited Biden's age as a reason for his potential primary run, emphasizing the need for new leadership. At 80 years old, Biden is significantly older than the 54-year-old congressman.

Phillips has represented the western suburbs of Minneapolis in Congress since 2019 and is known for his background in business, being the heir of the Phillips Distilling Company and co-owner of Talenti gelato. In 2018, his run for Minnesota's third congressional district successfully flipped the seat from Republican control. Adopting the slogan "everyone's invited," Phillips has positioned himself as an eternal optimist and a bipartisan believer.

Interestingly, despite his intention to challenge Biden, there appears to be little difference between their policy stances. The White House has highlighted that Phillips has voted in line with Biden's legislative agenda almost 100% of the time.

While Phillips has not made an official announcement about his campaign, there have been subtle hints in recent months. Observers have spotted a campaign bus and van, displaying the website dean24.com, traveling to New Hampshire. However, the website is currently parked and not publicly accessible.

In a notable move earlier this month, Phillips stepped down from leadership roles in the caucus, expressing that his convictions for 2024 were at odds with his colleagues' positions, causing discomfort.

Phillips's decision to primary an incumbent president has raised eyebrows and garnered criticism, not only from his fellow lawmakers but also from his constituents. It is worth noting that he has even drawn a primary challenger in his own district.

Additionally, the Minnesota Democratic-Farmer-Labor party has confirmed its support for Biden in both the primary and general elections of 2024, further highlighting the division within the party over Phillips's move.

Meanwhile, President Biden himself is set to visit Minnesota in the coming week, which adds a layer of intrigue to the developing primary race.

As this unexpected primary challenge unfolds, it remains to be seen what impact Dean Phillips's bid may have on the Democratic Party and its future direction. With the details gradually becoming clearer, political spectators eagerly await further developments in this unconventional political contest.