After over two decades in Congress, Rep. Jan Schakowsky, a long-serving Illinois Democrat, is stepping down. The 80-year-old, who has represented Illinois’ 9th congressional district since 1999, plans to announce her retirement on May 5, 2025. Her decision marks the end of a 14-term tenure.
Breitbart reported that Schakowsky, a prominent figure in Illinois politics, will reveal her plans at her annual Ultimate Women’s Power Lunch in Chicago. Sources say she has already begun informing close allies of her decision. This announcement follows a career defined by progressive activism and controversy.
Schakowsky’s retirement coincides with another major Illinois Democrat, Sen. Dick Durbin, also announcing his exit.
Representing a heavily Jewish district, Schakowsky’s political journey began as a left-wing consumer activist before she served as a state legislator. She entered Congress in 1999 after a competitive primary victory.
In 1998, Schakowsky won a three-way Democratic primary, defeating notable figures like J.B. Pritzker, now Illinois’ governor. Her campaign followed the retirement of Rep. Sidney R. Yates, opening the door for her congressional bid. She faced a few serious electoral challenges thereafter.
Her tenure was not without personal challenges, as her husband, Robert Creamer, faced legal troubles. Creamer’s conviction for bank fraud and tax evasion hindered Schakowsky’s broader political ambitions. Despite this, she maintained a strong hold on her district.
Known for her progressive stance, Schakowsky supported policies like Obamacare, famously stating it would disrupt the private health insurance industry.
In 2009, she declared the legislation would “put the private health insurance industry out of business.” This bold position solidified her reputation among left-leaning voters.
Schakowsky’s district, with its significant Jewish population, often placed her at the center of debates over Israel. Initially showing modest support, her stance shifted over 25 years to frequent opposition. She was an early backer of J Street, a group critical of Israel’s policies.
In 2024, Schakowsky joined 77 House Democrats in supporting an arms embargo on Israel. This move drew criticism from some constituents, particularly Orthodox Jews.
Her 2010 apology for targeting a conservative opponent’s faith during a J Street speech highlighted tensions in her district.
Despite her long tenure, Schakowsky faced minimal electoral threats until recently. In 2010, a conservative challenger ran against her, though she emerged victorious. Her district’s Democratic lean ensured her dominance for over two decades.
Recently, Schakowsky acquired a primary challenger in Kat Abughazaleh, a YouTube personality of Palestinian descent. Abughazaleh, who worked for Media Matters, moved to Illinois and advocates for a harder line against conservative policies. Her candidacy reflects growing progressive unrest within the party.
Abughazaleh’s challenge comes as Schakowsky prepares to exit, potentially reshaping the race for her seat. Other contenders include State Sen. Laura Fine and Evanston Mayor Daniel Biss. Fine is believed to hold an early advantage in the contest.
Schakowsky’s retirement announcement has sparked speculation about the future of Illinois’ 9th district. Her decision to step down follows a career marked by bold progressive stances and occasional missteps. The May 5 announcement will formalize her exit from Congress.
Schakowsky’s tenure included moments of controversy, such as her claim that women avoid manufacturing jobs because of the word “man.” This statement drew criticism for its disconnect from practical workforce issues. It underscored her tendency to prioritize ideological rhetoric.
Her support for progressive causes, like Obamacare and J Street, defined her as a polarizing figure. While celebrated by the left, her positions often alienated conservative and moderate voters. Her district’s loyalty, however, kept her in office for 14 terms.