ILLINOIS (Chambana Today) – After more than four decades in Congress, Senator Dick Durbin announced Wednesday that he will not seek reelection when his current term ends in 2026.
Durbin, who turns 80 this year, said the decision had been long in the making. “The people of Illinois have honored me with this responsibility longer than anyone elected to the Senate in our state’s history. I am truly grateful,” he said. “The challenges facing our country are historic and unprecedented, and I will continue to fight for Illinois every day until my final moments in the Senate.”
Durbin’s political career began in 1982, when he was first elected to the House of Representatives. In 1996, he successfully ran for the Senate and has served since, becoming one of the most influential Democrats in Congress. He served as Senate Majority Whip and currently chairs the Senate Judiciary Committee.
Reactions poured in from fellow leaders across Illinois. Senator Tammy Duckworth, Durbin’s junior colleague, praised his mentorship and credited him with helping launch her political career. “It has been the honor of a lifetime to work alongside a leader who embodies what it means to be a true public servant,” Duckworth said.
Governor JB Pritzker lauded Durbin’s legacy, citing his work on civil rights, healthcare, immigration reform, and infrastructure. “From first introducing the DREAM Act to leading the confirmation of Justice Jackson, Senator Durbin has worked tirelessly to improve the lives of everyday Illinoisans,” he said.
Durbin’s departure is expected to shake up Illinois politics, with a number of prominent figures, including sitting members of Congress, already eyeing the coveted Senate seat.