U.S. Rep. Jan Schakowsky (IL-09) says at Ultimate Women's Power lunch she will not run for reelection
Share this @internewscast.com

CHICAGO (WLS) — Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky announced Monday she will not run for reelection in 2026.

ABC7 Chicago is now streaming 24/7. Click here to watch

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.

RELATED: Illinois Treasurer Michael Frerichs not running for US Senate

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!”

Copyright © 2025 WLS-TV. All Rights Reserved.

Share this @internewscast.com
You May Also Like
Israel launches airstrikes targeting Yemen’s Houthi rebels, and Houthis launch missile at Israel

Israel Conducts Airstrikes on Yemen’s Houthi Rebels; Houthis Respond with Missile Attack on Israel

Israel’s military conducted airstrikes early Monday against ports and facilities controlled by…
Flash flooding in central North Carolina forces residents to flee homes

Central North Carolina Residents Forced to Evacuate Due to Flash Flooding

In central North Carolina, torrential rains led to flooded roads and towns,…
Watch: Eric Swalwell's Attempt to Troll Donald Trump Goes All Kinds of Wrong

A Hilarious Observation on ‘Robot Eric Swalwell’ Walk Reveals Something You Can’t Unsee

I’m just gonna say it. Eric Swalwell is a weird dude.  I’ve…
Illegal immigrant killer of Laken Riley wins unexpected court victory for mental evaluation

Court Grants Mental Evaluation for Laken Riley’s Killer, an Undocumented Immigrant

The illegal immigrant killer convicted in the death of Georgia college student…
A girl falling during a field day event while other girls watch.

Heartwrenching Videos Capture Kids Enjoying Camp Mystic – Before Singing Through Tears While Escaping Dangerous Floodwaters

HEARTBREAKING video shows girls having fun at Camp Mystic just days before…
Muddy bunk beds and belongings in a flood-damaged cabin.

Eerie Images of Vacant Camp Mystic Bunkbeds Following Tragic Texas Floods That Claimed 27 Lives, 11 Still Unaccounted For

HORRIFYING pictures show the aftermath of the Texas floods at Camp Mystic,…

Tragedy as Hero Dog Bruno, Known for Rescuing Nine People, Dies After Consuming Sausages Filled with Nails

OUTRAGE is sweeping across Italy after a heroic sniffer dog who saved…
Active shooter killed in attempt to ambush Border Patrol agents in Texas

Texas Border Patrol Agents Successfully Prevent Ambush by Armed Attacker

An individual armed with tactical gear and a rifle attacked Border Patrol…
Flooding from Chantal's remnants forces dozens to flee homes in North Carolina

Remnants of Chantal Cause Flooding, Forcing Dozens to Evacuate Homes in North Carolina

CHAPEL HILL, N.C. (AP) — Torrential rain and flooding resulting from the…
‘The Gilded Age’ Season 3 Delves Into a Hidden Part of History: “There Was a Black Elite Living in Newport”

“‘The Gilded Age’ Season 3 Explores the Overlooked History of Newport’s Black Elite”

HBO’s show The Gilded Age consistently acknowledges the presence of Black individuals…
Crime scene investigators collecting evidence at a shooting scene.

Three Killed and Ten Injured in July 4th Weekend Shooting as Police Condemn ‘Reckless Individuals Firing at Homes and Cars’

THREE people are dead and ten more have been injured in a…
Russian minister found dead hours after Putin fired him

Russian Official Discovered Dead Shortly After Dismissal by Putin

Russia’s transport minister, who also previously served as governor of the Kursk…