CHICAGO — In a significant political announcement, U.S. Representative Jan Schakowsky has declared her intention not to seek reelection in the upcoming year after a commendable 14-term service in Congress. This decision places her amongst the veteran Illinois Democrats deciding to retire from congressional duties.
Rep. Schakowsky, aged 80, expressed her continued commitment to activism in a formal statement, emphasizing her ongoing fight for equal rights, a fair economy, universal health care, reproductive rights, and environmental security. Her words reflect a resolve to champion these causes vigorously for the duration of her term and beyond.
Her retirement revelation follows closely on the heels of Illinois Senator Dick Durbin’s announcement, where he stated his decision not to pursue a sixth term in 2026, signifying a substantial shift in Illinois’ political landscape.
The announcement was made at Schakowsky’s annual luncheon event in Chicago, which saw the presence of notable figures such as Illinois Governor JB Pritzker, a former rival in the 1998 Democratic congressional primary.
Schakowsky’s political journey began as a member of the Illinois state legislature and a period spent as a public school teacher before ascending to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1999. Her tenure has seen numerous electoral victories, including her last campaign against Republican Seth Allen Cohen.
Throughout the years, Rep. Schakowsky has prioritized health care reform, immigration, and senior citizen advocacy in her legislative efforts. Serving on the House Energy and Commerce Committee, she gained attention for her outspoken criticism of President Donald Trump, notably opting not to attend his inauguration ceremonies.
Her proudest legislative achievements, as detailed on Monday, include contributions to the creation of the Affordable Care Act, as well as initiatives focusing on consumer and senior protections. Her term, slated to conclude in January 2027, marks a monumental political legacy.
The 9th District of Illinois, mainly Democratic, comprises parts of Chicago along Lake Michigan and varied neighborhoods and suburbs north of the city.
Prior to Schakowsky’s announcement, 26-year-old Kat Abughazaleh, a progressive influencer and journalist, had already announced her candidacy for the 2026 elections. Abughazaleh notably surpassed Schakowsky in fundraising efforts for a particular quarter of the year, according to Federal Election Commission data. Despite this, Schakowsky retains a substantial financial reserve.
Potential candidates include Evanston Mayor Daniel Biss and state legislators Rep. Kelly Cassidy and Sen. Laura Fine, indicating a vibrant forthcoming election to fill Schakowsky’s seat.