Schakowsky's potential exit opens door for young Dems
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Rep. Jan Schakowsky at a rally outside the U.S. Capitol in February. Photo: Paul Morigi/Getty Images for National Education Association
Democratic U.S. Rep. Jan Schakowsky is expected to announce Monday that she will not seek reelection in her Chicago and northern suburban district.
Why it matters: Schakowsky, 80, follows Sen. Dick Durbin in deciding to retire, ushering in a new era for Illinois Democrats.
The big picture: Schakowsky has spent 25 years in the House. Her decision to step down could pave the way for younger Democrats to take over the district that traditionally skews left.
- The youth movement is already taking shape at the DCCC as donors are pushing not only for Democrats to flip the House, but also for longtime incumbents to step aside.
The latest: Schakowsky is expected to share the news at her annual Ultimate Women's Power Lunch.
- Earlier reports suggested this was a done deal, but the congresswoman has yet to confirm her future plans.
Zoom in: Schakowsky and Durbin may be making way for the next generation, but other elder officials in the Democratic Party have either announced reelection plans or have been silent.
- Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle (78) changed her mind and announced her reelection campaign, while U.S. Rep Danny Davis (83) and Rep. Chuy Garcia (69) have yet to announce plans for 2026.
What they're saying: "These lawmakers deserve a break," Democratic analyst Kitty Kurth tells Axios. "We need some new, younger folks to take over."
Friction point: Illinois Democrats find themselves in a quandary. On one hand, the delegation's age brings wisdom and experience, while on the other hand, it risks the appearance of holding office for personal power rather than for the good of constituents.
- Case in point: Schakowsky is one of the most powerful Democrats in the chamber, serving on several committees and leading the influential Progressive Caucus.
Flashback: Illinois' House Democrats have been here before. Rep. Dan Rostenkowski served 36 years before losing to a GOP challenger in 1994, and Rep. Bobby Rush retired in 2022 after 30 years.
Zoom out: Younger voters are bucking the trend to vote Democratic. Voters under 30 shifted to the right from 2020 to 2024.
The intrigue: Progressive influencer Kat Abughazaleh has announced her campaign for the 9th District, as well as environmentalist Justin Ford, but don't be surprised if other politicians jump in for Schakowsky's coveted seat, including Evanston Mayor Daniel Biss.