Illinois Rep. Jan Schakowsky won’t seek another term in Congress

CHICAGO (WGN) — Illinois Rep. Jan Schakowsky on Monday announced that she would not seek another term.

She has served the state’s 9th Congressional District, which covers parts of Cook and McHenry counties, since 1999.

The 80-year-old’s announcement at her annual Ultimate Women’s Power Lunch was quickly followed by an official statement from her congressional office.

“It is now time for me to pass the baton,” a portion of her statement read. “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.”

Schakowsky touted the Affordable Care Act, consumer protection bills, and efforts to block the privatization of Social Security among her legislative wins.

Schakowsky, who serves as a Chief Deputy Whip and Ranking Member of the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Commerce, Manufacturing, and Trade, already faced a challenge for the Democratic nomination. Progressive influencer Kat Abughazaleh announced in March her intention to seek the nomination.

In a statement, Abughazaleh thanked Schakowsky for her “decades of exceptional public service.”

“While I don’t agree with any politician completely, I applaud Rep. Schakowsky’s track record on key issues from Social Security to Palestinian human rights,” she said in a statement that accompanied a video message.

Chicagoan Justin Ford, who describes himself as a father, union organizer, public health official and neighbor, announced his campaign last week.

Statement from Ill. Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton

“I commend Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky on her decades of service to Illinois families. She fought hard for us in Washington and championed a future that works better for all. I congratulate her on a well-earned retirement and I wish nothing but joy for her and Robert as they welcome this new chapter. Jan delivered real change for Illinois – it’s time for us to carry her legacy forward.”

Statement from Ill. Rep. Robin Kelly

“For over 25 years, Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky has been a powerful advocate for her constituents and the people of Illinois. I’m incredibly grateful for her partnership in the Illinois Delegation and the Energy and Commerce Committee as we’ve fought together for access to high-quality healthcare.”

“Congresswoman Schakowsky’s legacy, including her leadership in passing the Affordable Care Act, will continue to improve American lives. I wish her and her family all the best in a well-earned retirement.”

Statement from Rep. Jesús “Chuy” García

“Jan Schakowsky is a legend in Illinois politics and the progressive movement nationwide. She has devoted herself to standing up for women, workers, seniors, immigrants, and people pushed to the margins—always with clarity, conviction, heart, and strategic smarts. Her retirement is a big loss for Congress, but her impact will be felt for a long time.”

“I’ve known Jan for many years, long before we served together in Congress, we served in the Illinois General Assembly. She’s always had my back, and I’ve always looked up to her, not just for what she’s fought for, but for how she’s done it: with integrity, courage, and deep love for community. Jan and Bob are part of a long tradition of organizing in Chicago that shaped my political journey. Their commitment has moved the needle on many issues and lifted a generation of activists and leaders.”

“I’m proud to call Jan a friend and mentor, and I wish her and Bob all the best in this next chapter. If I know Jan, she’ll continue to lead by example.”

Statement from Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi

“Throughout her career in public service, Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky has been a fearless champion for working families, women, and seniors, and a tireless advocate for justice. She has also been a dear friend and trusted colleague whose leadership will be deeply missed in Congress. Her legacy of principled service and progressive action has improved the lives of millions. I’m grateful to have worked alongside her, and I look forward to continuing that fight alongside her through the end of this term. I wish Jan and her family all the best in this next chapter.”