Overview
- Senator Dick Durbin, 80, announced his decision to retire at the end of his term in 2027, citing age and a desire to 'pass the torch.'
- Durbin has served in Congress since 1983, including five Senate terms, and has been the Senate Democratic whip since 2005.
- His retirement creates a leadership vacuum, with potential reshuffling of his influential whip position and Judiciary Committee role.
- A competitive Democratic primary is expected in Illinois, with potential candidates including Reps. Raja Krishnamoorthi, Lauren Underwood, Robin Kelly, and Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton.
- Durbin is the fourth Senate Democrat to announce retirement ahead of the 2026 midterms, joining Gary Peters, Tina Smith, and Jeanne Shaheen.