[3] It was named for rancher and state senator Benjamin D. Phillips.

[citation needed] As of the 2010 census, there were 4,253 people, 1,819 households, and 1,159 families residing in the county.

In terms of ancestry, 26.2% were Norwegian, 24.3% were German, 13.4% were Irish, 10.1% were American, and 9.0% were English.

From its creation until 1964, voters of Phillips County were fairly balanced; they selected Democratic Party candidates in 58% of national elections.

After 1964 the Republican presidential candidate has garnered the county's vote in every election.