CHICAGO (WLS) — Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky announced Monday she will not run for reelection in 2026.
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Schakowsky has spent 25 years in the House representing Chicago and the north and northwest suburbs.
On Monday, the 80-year-old Democrat hosted her 24th annual Ultimate Women’s Power lunch fundraiser.
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There had been reports that she had been considering retirement.
Schakowsky has held her seat in Illinois’ 9th Congressional District since 1998.
In Congress, she dedicates most of her efforts on issues related to health care and seniors.
She released a statement Monday that said:
“For the past 26 years, it has been my great honor to represent the 9th Congressional District of Illinois, the place I’ve called home all my life and, in my view, the finest district in the country. Today, with deep gratitude and appreciation for my constituents, I announce my decision not to seek reelection at the end of my current term.”
“I am extremely proud of the achievements I have made during my tenure in Congress. I was privileged to contribute to the drafting and passage of the Affordable Care Act, which made it impossible to deny Americans coverage due to pre-existing conditions and secured quality health insurance for millions. I’ve successfully passed consumer protection legislation that has safeguarded lives and shielded Americans, especially children, from hazardous products while enhancing auto safety. I’ve fought to protect the welfare of seniors and their families, thwarting Republican efforts to privatize Social Security, and worked to enhance Medicare and Medicaid by lowering prescription drug costs and increasing access to quality long-term care. None of this would have been possible without the guidance of dedicated consumer advocates and the sustained trust and support of our community.”
“While achieving these legislative victories is significant, the most fulfilling part of my role has always been connecting directly with constituents in the 9th District. Whether visiting schools, attending rallies, touring new small businesses, or speaking with local shoppers, I’ve always prioritized and cherished engaging with constituents and providing services. I’m proud to have consistently operated one of the best and most effective constituent service teams in the nation. From resolving health insurance or Medicare issues to expediting passports or immigration applications, aiding small businesses and non-profits with funding, helping veterans access benefits, cutting through bureaucratic obstacles for Social Security and IRS issues, preventing deportations, and much more, my team and I have tirelessly worked to represent and deliver for our constituents daily.”
“For my entire career, I have made it my mission to mentor and guide the next generation of leaders. In fact, when I talk with students, I do not ask them what they want to be when they grow up, I ask them what they want to do today to make a difference in this world. It is now time for me to pass the baton. We are so fortunate in the 9th District that there are dozens of talented leaders, advocates, and organizers who know our community and who are ready to lead the charge as we fight back against the extreme MAGA agenda and President Donald Trump’s shameful policies.
“To the people of Illinois’ 9th Congressional District, thank you for allowing me to be your voice in Congress. I have tried to serve you each and every day with the integrity, decency, and fire you deserve. It truly is the honor of a lifetime!
“To my staff, past and present, I could not have done this without you. Thank you for your dedication, sacrifices, expertise, and smiles. Together, through all those late nights and early mornings, we were able to make a difference. The 9th District of Illinois and our nation are healthier, stronger, and more prosperous because of our hard work.
“And to my family, thank you for going on this wild journey with me. I am looking forward to spending more family time together as I enter this new chapter of life. I love you.
“While I will miss serving the people of the 9th District in an elected capacity, I am not going anywhere. For the remainder of my term, and beyond, I vow to continue taking every opportunity possible to fight for my community and my country. I will do everything in my power to secure equal rights for all, an economy that works for everyone, not just the rich, universal health care, reproductive rights, environmental protections and climate security, and so much more. We must all keep the faith, continue to resist, and make our voices heard, because when we fight, we win!”
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