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4d ago

Rep. Jan Schakowsky to Retire, Signaling Generational Shift in House Democrats

The 80-year-old Illinois congresswoman plans to step down after 14 terms, as younger progressives challenge senior incumbents.

Rep. Jan Schakowsky speaks at a press conference at the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 22. Photo: Demetrius Freeman/The Washington Post via Getty Images
U.S. Rep. Jan Schakowsky listens while Mayor Brandon Johnson appears before the House Oversight Committee on March 5, 2025, during a hearing on Capitol Hill about sanctuary cities and immigration policy. (Brian Cassella/Chicago Tribune)
Rep. Jan Schakowsky, D-Ill., another 80-year-old in Congress, has started informing allies she will not seek reelection, according to Politico. Illinois Sen. Dick Durbin, 80, announced Wednesday he was not seeking reelection in 2026. (AP file/Andrew Harnik)
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Overview

  • Rep. Jan Schakowsky has informed colleagues of her decision to retire and will formally announce it on May 5, 2025.
  • Schakowsky, 80, is the first House member this cycle to retire without seeking higher office, highlighting a shift within the Democratic Party.
  • Her departure follows a primary challenge from 26-year-old progressive Kat Abughazaleh, reflecting growing generational tensions in the party.
  • Potential candidates for her Illinois district seat include Evanston Mayor Daniel Biss and state Sen. Laura Fine, with more contenders expected to emerge.
  • Schakowsky’s retirement could prompt additional exits by senior Democrats facing similar challenges from younger progressives.