CHICAGO, Illinois – Senator Dick Durbin of Illinois has announced that he will not seek re-election in 2026, bringing an end to his lengthy career in Congress. Durbin, a Democrat who currently holds the position of the second-ranking Democrat in the Senate and serves as the ranking member of the Judiciary Committee, made this decision known on Wednesday. The news has sparked speculation about who will vie for his seat in the upcoming primary in the solidly blue state of Illinois.
Durbin, 80, has been a prominent figure in the Senate since his election in 1996. He has been recognized for his legislative work, including leading efforts to confirm numerous federal judges, banning smoking on airplanes, and advocating for criminal justice reforms. Additionally, Durbin played a key role in introducing the “DREAM Act” aimed at providing a pathway to citizenship for young individuals brought to the United States illegally. His departure will create a leadership gap that Illinois Democrats are likely to fill with a competitive field of candidates.
Possible contenders for Durbin’s seat include prominent figures such as Representatives Lauren Underwood, Raja Krishnamoorthi, Robin Kelly, and Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton. Krishnamoorthi, in particular, has been amassing a substantial campaign fund, fueling speculation about a potential bid for higher office. The Democratic Party in Illinois faces uncertainty as Governor JB Pritzker has not confirmed his plans for re-election next year, raising questions about who might seek to fill other vacant positions in the state.
Durbin’s retirement marks an end to an era in the Senate, with Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer praising his dedication to justice and advocacy for those in need. Democrats as a whole face a challenging path to securing a Senate majority, with a number of key seats up for grabs in the upcoming elections. Durbin’s decision not to seek re-election underscores the evolving landscape of American politics, as both parties strategize on how to secure crucial wins in future contests.