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Illinois Senator Dick Durbin Announces Retirement, Setting Stage for Competitive Race
Sen. Dick Durbin, a Democrat representing Illinois, declared Wednesday that he will not seek another term in 2026, bringing an end to his long tenure in Congress. Durbin’s decision will trigger a scramble among potential candidates eager to represent Illinois in the Senate. As the second-highest-ranking Democrat in the Senate and the ranking member of the Judiciary Committee, his departure creates a significant leadership void and is anticipated to ignite a fierce primary battle in the firmly Democratic state.
Durbin’s Legacy and Decision to Step Down
“Deciding whether to seek re-election was challenging. I genuinely cherish being a United States Senator. However, I know it’s time to pass the torch,” Durbin stated in a message shared on Wednesday. “Therefore, I am announcing today that I will not seek re-election when my term concludes.”
- Durbin, 80, is among the longest-serving senators, having been first elected in 1996.
- He previously served Illinois in the House of Representatives for 14 years.
Key Legislative Achievements
Durbin’s office highlighted his success in guiding 235 federal judicial nominees, including Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson, through the Judiciary Committee from 2021-2024 during his chairmanship. Other notable achievements include:
- Spearheading the ban on smoking on airplanes.
- Working on various criminal justice reform initiatives.
- Co-authoring the “DREAM Act,” first introduced in 2001, aimed at providing a pathway to citizenship for young undocumented immigrants. Although the DREAM Act never passed, it paved the way for the “DACA” program established via executive action in 2012.
Potential Candidates Emerge for Illinois Senate Seat
His decision has opened a coveted seat, and Illinois Democrats are preparing for what is likely to be a contested primary. A variety of federal and local lawmakers are viewed as potential contenders.
Recently, the progressive group 314 Action conducted a hypothetical poll that considered a potential Democratic primary field, including Reps. Lauren Underwood, Raja Krishnamoorthi, and Robin Kelly, as well as Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton. The group, which supports candidates with backgrounds in science and technology, has previously endorsed Underwood.
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Financial Positions of Potential Candidates
- Krishnamoorthi has accumulated substantial funds over several years, fueling speculation about ambitions for higher office. He concluded the first fundraising quarter with an impressive $19 million in his campaign account.
- Underwood’s campaign reported $1.1 million at the end of the same period, while Kelly had $2 million on hand.
- Stratton recently entered federal politics by launching a federal political action committee earlier in the year.
Uncertainty Surrounding Illinois Governor’s Race
Adding to the political landscape in Illinois, Gov. JB Pritzker remains uncommitted regarding a potential re-election bid next year. He is presently focused on opposing President Donald Trump. Should he opt to vacate the governor’s mansion in anticipation of a potential 2028 presidential campaign, the resulting open seat could draw considerable interest from Democrats.
Reactions and Senate Dynamics
Despite Trump’s gains in Illinois in November, Durbin’s seat is widely expected to remain under Democratic control. Then-Vice President Kamala Harris secured Illinois with an 11-point margin, capturing 54% of the vote.
Senate Leaders Reflect on Durbin’s Service
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer praised Durbin’s contributions, stating, “His deep commitment to justice, his tireless advocacy for Americans in need, and his wisdom in leadership have left an indelible mark on this institution, the United States, and his beloved Illinois. The Senate—and the country—are better because of his service.”
Other Senate Democrats also lauded Durbin’s career on Wednesday.
Broader Implications for the Senate
Sen. Brian Schatz of Hawaii, a member of the Democratic leadership, characterized Durbin as “a pillar of leadership, integrity, and unwavering dedication to the people of his home state of Illinois and the nation.”
Durbin joins Sens. Jeanne Shaheen, Gary Peters, and Tina Smith as the fourth Senate Democrat to announce retirement plans ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.
Democrats face a tough battle to secure a Senate majority. In addition to defending these seats, they must gain four seats currently held by Republicans next year.