Illinois Democrat Jan Schakowsky announces 2026 retirement after decades in Congress

Jan Schakowsky, 80, a longtime Democratic congresswoman from Illinois, made her retirement public during her annual luncheon in Chicago on Monday.

First elected to Congress in 1998, she has represented the state's 9th District since 1999.

"For the remainder of my term, and beyond, I vow to continue taking every opportunity possible to fight for my community and my country," Schakowsky said in her announcement.

"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."

A former public school teacher and state legislator, Schakowsky built her reputation on championing health care, immigration reform, and the rights of senior citizens.

She is a member of the powerful House Energy and Commerce Committee and has been a consistent critic of Donald Trump, famously skipping both of his presidential inaugurations.

Among her proudest legislative achievements, she lists her contributions to the Affordable Care Act and consumer protection laws.

A crowded race already taking shape

Although Schakowsky's term officially ends in January 2027, competition for her seat is already heating up.

Kat Abughazaleh, a 26-year-old progressive journalist and influencer, declared her candidacy earlier this year and outpaced Schakowsky in fundraising last quarter, bringing in $379,000 compared to the congresswoman's $213,000.

Despite this, Schakowsky still holds a financial edge, with over $877,000 in cash on hand.

Other potential contenders for the solidly blue district include Evanston Mayor Daniel Biss — who lost a primary to Schakowsky in 1998 — and state lawmakers Rep. Kelly Cassidy and Sen. Laura Fine.

The 9th District covers parts of Chicago along Lake Michigan and stretches into affluent and middle-class suburbs to the north and northwest.