Dick Durbin retirement 2026: Sen. Dick Durbin, D-Ill., announced he will not seek re-election in 2026. He made the announcement in a video posted on X (formerly Twitter). Durbin, who is 80 years old, said it was time to pass the torch.
“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 stated.
A Distinguished Career
Senator Durbin was first elected to the Senate in 1996. Before that, he served seven terms in the U.S. House of Representatives. Over the years, Durbin became known as a strong voice for working families.
He now leads the influential Senate Judiciary Committee and is the Senate Democratic whip. He co-authored the DREAM Act and spearheaded the campaign to outlaw smoking on aircraft.
Legacy of Leadership
Durbin played a key role in several major legislative achievements:
- Co-author of the DREAM Act, which inspired the DACA program
- Advocate for the Affordable Care Act
- Supporter of the First Step Act, a bipartisan criminal justice reform law
- Vocal supporter of stricter gun laws
He also voted to convict Donald Trump in both impeachment trials, though Trump was acquitted.
Obama and Duckworth Praise Durbin
Former President Barack Obama credited Durbin for helping launch his career.
“I would not have been a U.S. Senator—or President—without Dick’s support,” Obama said.
Sen. Tammy Duckworth called Durbin a “giant of the Senate” and praised his mentorship.
2026 Illinois Senate Race Begins
Durbin’s decision has created an open race in deep-blue Illinois. Democrats remain confident they will hold the seat. No Republican has won a U.S. Senate seat in Illinois in 15 years.
Among the Democrats considering a run are:
- Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi
- Rep. Robin Kelly
- Rep. Lauren Underwood
- Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton
- State Sen. Robert Peters
GOP Eyes Opportunity
Despite Illinois being a Democratic stronghold, Republicans note that former President Trump narrowed his loss in the state from 17 points in 2020 to 11 points in 2024.
The GOP believes Durbin’s retirement reflects what they call a “failed Democratic agenda.”
“Senate Democrats continue to jump ship as their party’s brand tanks,” said NRSC’s Johanna Rodriguez.
Final Thoughts
Senator Durbin leaves behind a legacy shaped by compassion, reform, and integrity. Dick Durbin retirement 2026: His retirement marks the end of an era for Illinois politics and opens the door for new Democratic leadership.
Source: Fox News
