Illinois Senator Dick Durbin announced on Wednesday that he will retire after his current term. The 78-year-old Democrat, who has served the state in the U.S. Senate since 1997, stated he will not seek reelection in 2026.
Durbin’s announcement comes as a surprise to some, given his long-standing career in public service and influential role in the Democratic Party.
He currently serves as the Senate Majority Whip, the second-highest-ranking position in the party leadership.
Throughout his career, Durbin has been known for his efforts to advocate for the residents of Illinois and nationwide.
He has been a prominent figure in immigration reform debates, often pushing for policies that support a pathway to citizenship for undocumented immigrants.
His work on healthcare has also been notable, particularly his efforts to expand access to medical coverage and address healthcare disparities.
Durbin’s early political career began in the House of Representatives, where he served from 1983 to 1997 before moving to the Senate.
Even as he prepares to step down, Durbin is expected to remain active in legislative matters for the remainder of his term.
His leadership will be particularly crucial in ongoing debates over the federal budget, immigration policy, and other pressing issues that require bipartisan cooperation.