Sen. Dick Durbin Announces He Will Not Seek Re-Election in 2026

Senator Dick Durbin, the second-highest ranking Democrat in the U.S. Senate and chair of the Judiciary Committee, has announced he will not seek re-election when his term ends in 2026. The 80-year-old Illinois senator made the announcement in a heartfelt video message on X (formerly Twitter), saying, “I truly love the job of being a United States Senator. But in my heart, I know it’s time to pass the torch.”

Durbin’s decades-long career in Congress began with his election to the House of Representatives in 1982. He later succeeded his mentor Paul Simon in the Senate in 1996, becoming a fixture in national politics and a key figure in shaping Democratic legislative efforts.

His decision to step down is expected to spark a competitive race in Illinois—a solidly blue state where Democrats have long dominated Senate elections. Despite Republican optimism tied to recent gains by Donald Trump, Illinois has only elected one GOP senator in the past four decades.

Durbin leaves behind a legacy of legislative achievement. He was instrumental in banning smoking on airplanes in the 1980s and was a key force behind the bipartisan First Step Act, which reformed federal prison sentencing. He also co-authored the DREAM Act, helping lay the groundwork for the DACA program, and has consistently pushed for stricter gun laws and expanded health care access under the Affordable Care Act.

His impact has been praised by prominent leaders, including former President Barack Obama, who credited Durbin with helping launch his political career. “He has been a great and loyal friend,” Obama wrote. “Michelle and I wish him and Loretta all the best in their next chapter.”

Fellow Illinois Senator Tammy Duckworth echoed the praise, calling Durbin a mentor and a hero. She reflected on his compassion and guidance during her recovery after losing her legs in combat, saying, “When Dick looked at me, he saw past the wounds. He saw a soldier in search of her next mission.”

As the political world begins to look ahead to the 2026 race, Durbin’s legacy as a principled and persistent voice in American politics will shape conversations for years to come.