WASHINGTON (TNND) — Veteran Illinois Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky is expected to announce her retirement on May 5, 2025, after 14 terms in the U.S. House of Representatives. The 80-year-old Democrat has reportedly begun informing allies of her decision, although she has not publicly confirmed it yet. Schakowsky, who has represented Illinois’ 9th District since 1999, is a prominent member of the House Progressive Caucus and has been a vocal advocate for various issues, including consumer protection and women's rights.
On April 23, 2025, Politico reported that Schakowsky plans to make her announcement during her annual Ultimate Women’s Power Lunch at the Sheraton Grand Chicago. Despite the reports, Schakowsky issued a statement saying, "I will make that decision in the coming weeks and announce on May 5.” This statement indicates that while retirement seems imminent, she has not finalized her plans.
Schakowsky first entered Congress in 1998 after serving eight years in the Illinois State Legislature. She has since become a key player in the Democratic Party, holding significant positions such as Chief Deputy Whip and serving on the House Energy and Commerce Committee. Her tenure has been marked by her strong advocacy for Social Security, healthcare reform, and labor issues.
During a recent event with residents of a senior living facility, Schakowsky spoke passionately about the importance of protecting Social Security, claiming that Republicans are attempting to undermine the program. "President Trump and Republicans in Congress want to gut this lifesaving program so they can pay for tax cuts for corporations and billionaires. Enough is enough,” she stated. “We must expand Social Security benefits, not cut them. We will not stop fighting back together — Democrats, seniors, Illinoisans, because when we fight, we win.”
Schakowsky’s potential retirement comes amid a wave of departures from the Democratic Party as several long-serving lawmakers announce they will not seek re-election ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. Notably, U.S. Senator Dick Durbin, also 80, announced on the same day that he would not pursue a sixth term, indicating a significant shift in Illinois politics.
As Schakowsky prepares for her retirement, the race for her congressional seat is already heating up. Kat Abughazaleh, a 26-year-old social media influencer and former journalist, has declared her candidacy for the Democratic nomination. Abughazaleh, who relocated to Chicago from New York, has quickly garnered attention, raising over $378,000 in her first week of campaigning. She emphasizes the need for bold progressive policies and aims to capture the seat that Schakowsky has held for decades.
In addition to Abughazaleh, other potential candidates are also emerging. State Senator Laura Fine and Evanston Mayor Daniel Biss are both considered likely contenders should Schakowsky confirm her retirement. Fine has served in the Illinois State Senate since 2019, while Biss has previously held a state senate seat and is well-known in the local political landscape.
Schakowsky’s retirement announcement is expected to spark a flurry of campaign activity in the 9th District, which stretches across parts of Cook, Lake, and McHenry counties. The district is known for its progressive leanings, and Schakowsky has consistently secured re-election with significant margins, receiving over 68% of the vote in November 2024 against a Republican opponent.
Throughout her congressional career, Schakowsky has been a staunch advocate for healthcare reform, playing a major role in the drafting of the Affordable Care Act prior to its enactment in 2010. Her leadership has been instrumental in advancing issues related to consumer protection and labor rights, making her a respected figure within the Democratic Party.
As the political landscape shifts in Illinois, Schakowsky's departure will not only mark the end of an era but also open the door for new voices and perspectives within the party. The upcoming announcement on May 5 will clarify her future and set the stage for a competitive race to succeed her in Congress.
In recent months, Schakowsky has also voiced concerns regarding the Department of Justice's enforcement of laws protecting reproductive health care services. In March, she criticized an order that limited enforcement of a law prohibiting threats of force and obstruction aimed at healthcare facilities. She argued that while individuals have the right to protest peacefully, they do not have the right to intimidate or threaten those seeking healthcare services.
As the Democratic Party grapples with generational change and the implications of aging leadership, Schakowsky's anticipated retirement reflects broader trends within the party. With several prominent Democrats choosing to step aside, the 2026 elections are shaping up to be a pivotal moment for the Democratic Party in Illinois and beyond.
As the countdown to Schakowsky's announcement continues, political observers and constituents alike are left wondering what the future holds for Illinois’ 9th District and who will emerge as the next representative to carry on the legacy of one of the state's most influential political figures.
