Democrats calling for a generational shift in Congress are gaining ground, with more senior lawmakers announcing retirements — including one that could reshape Senate leadership.
Senator Dick Durbin will retire when his term ends in 2027. This opens up three major positions:
- His role as Senate Majority Whip (top contender: Sen. Brian Schatz, 52)
- His position on the Senate Judiciary Committee (likely successor: Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse, 69)
- His Illinois Senate seat (potential candidates: Rep. Lauren Underwood, 38, and Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi, 51)
Younger Democrats are praising Durbin’s decision to step aside. Rep. Ro Khanna, 48, said he respects Durbin’s “wisdom in paving the way for a new generation.” Meanwhile, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, 74, announced he plans to seek another term as leader.
In the House, Rep. Jan Schakowsky, 80, is expected to announce her retirement next month, according to sources. That would open the door for younger Illinois Democrats. Though Schakowsky hasn’t made anything official, she already faces a primary challenge from 26-year-old influencer Kat Abughazaleh. State Sen. Laura Fine, 58, and Evanston Mayor Daniel Biss, 47, are also expected to run if Schakowsky steps down.
These retirements are speeding up the generational shift that many Democratic voters want, especially as the party faces challenges during the second Trump administration. New candidates aiming to replace outgoing Senators — Gary Peters (66) in Michigan, Tina Smith (67) in Minnesota, and Jeanne Shaheen (78) in New Hampshire — are significantly younger.
Activists are urging more older Democrats to follow Durbin’s example. One focus is Sen. Ed Markey, 78, of Massachusetts, who beat a younger challenger in 2020. Now, some are asking him not to run again in 2026. Amanda Litman, co-founder of Run For Something, said Democrats should “retire with dignity” to make space for the next generation.
Markey’s team responded by highlighting Kaveesh Pathak, 20, a former campaign fellow, who continues to support the senator for his climate and immigration advocacy.
Meanwhile, 25-year-old DNC vice chair David Hogg recently made waves by pledging $20 million to support challengers running against what he called “ineffective” Democrats in safe districts. DNC Chair Ken Martin plans to push back during a member call, suggesting all DNC officers stay neutral in party primaries.
Democratic pollster Paul Maslin summed it up: “Most people wouldn’t go as far as Hogg, but there’s a real hunger for change. And the sooner it happens in a meaningful way, the better.”
