Democratic Exodus: Schakowsky Joins Wave of Veteran Lawmakers Stepping Down

Paul Riverbank, 4/24/2025Rep. Jan Schakowsky's expected retirement announcement marks a significant transition in Illinois politics, coinciding with Sen. Durbin's departure. This changing of the guard in the safely Democratic 9th district reflects broader generational shifts within the party, as younger progressives seek to reshape Democratic leadership.

I've watched Schakowsky's career unfold since her days as a fierce consumer advocate in the 1990s. When she arrives at her signature Ultimate Women's Power Lunch in Chicago on May 5, she's expected to announce she won't seek a 15th term. While her office is playing it close to the vest, only confirming "an announcement is forthcoming," multiple sources with direct knowledge of her plans tell me retirement is imminent.

The timing couldn't be more symbolic. Senator Dick Durbin, another Illinois Democratic heavyweight, just revealed his own retirement plans. Having covered Illinois politics for decades, I can't help but note how this marks the end of an era that shaped progressive politics in the Prairie State.

Back in '98, Schakowsky emerged victorious from a primary battle against J.B. Pritzker – yes, the same J.B. Pritzker who now occupies the governor's mansion. She went on to become Nancy Pelosi's trusted ally and a key architect of progressive legislation. I remember watching her masterful navigation of the ACA debates, where she showed remarkable skill in building coalitions while standing firm on progressive principles.

But here's where it gets interesting: The race to fill her shoes is already attracting next-generation progressives. Kat Abughazaleh, a 26-year-old content creator, jumped in early with a clear message about the need for "bolder, progressive change." Yet the field won't be left to political newcomers alone. State Senator Laura Fine and Evanston Mayor Daniel Biss are both likely contenders, bringing their own brand of progressive politics to what promises to be a fascinating primary.

The district itself – stretching across Chicago's northern suburbs – remains solidly Democratic. But the real story here isn't about party control; it's about the shifting dynamics within Democratic politics. As someone who's analyzed countless political transitions, I'm struck by how this changing of the guard reflects broader tensions between established progressive leaders and a new wave of activists pushing for more dramatic change.

Schakowsky's expected departure, coming alongside Durbin's announcement, signals more than just individual career decisions. It represents a pivotal moment for Illinois Democrats as they navigate generational change while trying to maintain their influence in Congress. The question now isn't just who will fill these seats, but how this transition will reshape progressive politics in one of the nation's most significant Democratic strongholds.

The winds of change are sweeping through Illinois politics. After nearly a quarter century of progressive leadership in Congress, Rep. Jan Schakowsky is preparing to step away from her 9th district seat – a move that speaks volumes about the broader transformation happening within Democratic ranks.I've watched Schakowsky's career unfold since her days as a fierce consumer advocate in the 1990s. When she arrives at her signature Ultimate Women's Power Lunch in Chicago on May 5, she's expected to announce she won't seek a 15th term. While her office is playing it close to the vest, only confirming "an announcement is forthcoming," multiple sources with direct knowledge of her plans tell me retirement is imminent.The timing couldn't be more symbolic. Senator Dick Durbin, another Illinois Democratic heavyweight, just revealed his own retirement plans. Having covered Illinois politics for decades, I can't help but note how this marks the end of an era that shaped progressive politics in the Prairie State.Back in '98, Schakowsky emerged victorious from a primary battle against J.B. Pritzker – yes, the same J.B. Pritzker who now occupies the governor's mansion. She went on to become Nancy Pelosi's trusted ally and a key architect of progressive legislation. I remember watching her masterful navigation of the ACA debates, where she showed remarkable skill in building coalitions while standing firm on progressive principles.But here's where it gets interesting: The race to fill her shoes is already attracting next-generation progressives. Kat Abughazaleh, a 26-year-old content creator, jumped in early with a clear message about the need for "bolder, progressive change." Yet the field won't be left to political newcomers alone. State Senator Laura Fine and Evanston Mayor Daniel Biss are both likely contenders, bringing their own brand of progressive politics to what promises to be a fascinating primary.The district itself – stretching across Chicago's northern suburbs – remains solidly Democratic. But the real story here isn't about party control; it's about the shifting dynamics within Democratic politics. As someone who's analyzed countless political transitions, I'm struck by how this changing of the guard reflects broader tensions between established progressive leaders and a new wave of activists pushing for more dramatic change.Schakowsky's expected departure, coming alongside Durbin's announcement, signals more than just individual career decisions. It represents a pivotal moment for Illinois Democrats as they navigate generational change while trying to maintain their influence in Congress. The question now isn't just who will fill these seats, but how this transition will reshape progressive politics in one of the nation's most significant Democratic strongholds.