Illinois Senator Dick Durbin has announced he will not seek reelection in 2026, ending a long career in Congress that has spanned over four decades. The 80-year-old Democrat made his decision public in a video released on Wednesday, expressing his love for the job but stating, "it’s time to pass the torch."
Durbin has served as the Senate Democratic whip for the past 20 years, making him one of the most prominent figures in the Democratic leadership. His retirement opens up a significant opportunity for new leadership within the party, especially as Democrats face challenges in opposing Republican policies while holding a minority in both the House and Senate.
In his announcement, Durbin reflected on the difficulty of his decision, noting that he had been uncertain about running for a sixth term. However, speculation among Democrats had suggested for some time that he might step down. His departure adds to a growing list of Senate Democrats opting out of the next election cycle, including Senators Jeanne Shaheen, Tina Smith, and Gary Peters.
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer praised Durbin for his commitment to justice and his advocacy for those in need, highlighting the impact of his leadership on the Senate and the country. Schumer stated, "The Senate—and the country—are better because of his service."
Durbin’s retirement comes at a pivotal time for the Democratic Party. With calls from the party base for more aggressive strategies against the Republican agenda, there is increased pressure to identify and promote younger leaders. Potential successors to Durbin include Senators Brian Schatz of Hawaii and Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota.
As Democrats prepare for the upcoming midterm elections, they are expected to retain Durbin’s seat, although several other Democratic-held Senate seats are anticipated to be competitive. Durbin’s legacy, including his role as chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee and his involvement in significant judicial confirmations, will likely continue to influence the party’s direction in the years to come.