Today, Illinois Senator Dick Durbin announced he will not seek another term in the US Senate. This was followed by reports that US Representative Jan Schakowsky also will not seek another term.
Durbin is now 80 years old and the second most powerful Democrat in the US Senate as the minority whip. Durbin has served in the seat since 1996. “I truly love the job of being a United States Senator. But in my heart, I know it’s time to pass the torch. So, I am announcing today that I will not be seeking re-election at the end of my term,” said Durbin. He has enormous ability to get things done for Illinois and has delivered many resources to our state.
Schakowsky told colleagues that she also will not be seeking another term. She too is 80 years old and has been serving in the role for 28 years. According to reports, a staffer said she will make the official announcement on May 5th. Later in the day, she posted on X, “not made a decision about my plans for re-election and will decide in the coming weeks.”
Both of these changes will cause a swirl of activity as others jockey for position to run for the open seats.
GOP U.S. Rep. Darin LaHood is said to be the recipient of encouragement from Republican party insiders to run for the senate seat. He is reportedly interested.
26-year-old Kat Abughazaleh announced her intention to run for the seat against Schakowsky in the next primary.
Expect hats to fly as many heavy weights will no doubt join the respective races.