In a recently released video announcing his candidacy, Schlossberg declared that the nation is facing a pivotal moment. “We’re encountering crises on multiple fronts,” he stated, highlighting a soaring cost-of-living issue exacerbated by extensive bills and historic reductions in social services critical to working families, such as healthcare, education, and childcare. Schlossberg didn’t shy away from criticizing President Donald Trump, whom he holds accountable for these challenges.

On various online platforms and during media interactions, Schlossberg has positioned himself with the youthful, progressive faction of the Democratic Party, advocating for a generational shift in leadership. His support for Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani in the New York City mayoral race was emphatic, as he dismissed concerns about clashing with former governor Andrew Cuomo, who shares family ties with Kerry Kennedy, a niece of John F. Kennedy.

The Kennedy family has a storied history in American politics, with three generations serving in various elected positions. This includes John F. Kennedy’s brothers, Robert, a former attorney general and New York senator, and Ted, who served as a Massachusetts senator for many years. Despite this legacy, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., currently serving as Trump’s Health and Human Services Secretary, has seen his political and medical views largely rejected by much of the Kennedy clan.

He backed Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani in the New York City mayor’s race, remarking, “I don’t give a f—” about crossing former governor Andrew Cuomo, who was previously married to Kerry Kennedy, John F Kennedy’s niece.

Three generations of Kennedys have served in elected office, including John F Kennedy’s brothers Robert, a former attorney general and New York senator, and Ted, the longtime senator from Massachusetts.

Robert F Kennedy Jr is currently Trump’s Health and Human Services secretary, though much of the stalwart Democratic family has disavowed RFK Jr’s views on politics and medicine.

Schlossberg posted on X in September: “RFK LOSER IS A THREAT TO PUBLIC HEALTH and AMERICAN SCIENTIFIC LEADERSHIP.”

The contest to succeed Nadler could draw a wide field of contenders.

Already running is Assemblyman Micah Lasher, seen as the candidate with Nadler’s backing, along with Liam Elkind, who started an organisation during the COVID-19 pandemic that delivered food and medicine.

Potential candidates also include: former representative Carolyn Maloney, state assemblymembers Alex Bores and Tony Simone, New York City Council member Erik Bottcher, and Cameron Kasky, an activist and survivor of the Parkland High School shooting.

After a strong performance in this year’s elections, Democrats are hopeful the 2026 midterm battle for control of the House and Senate will reinvigorate the party and help it push back against the president’s agenda.