Longtime U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin announced on Wednesday, April 23, that he plans to retire after his current term expires in 2027, and U.S. Rep. Robin Kelly, whose 2nd Congressional District includes Homewood and Flossmoor, said she is interested in running for the seat.
“I love the job of United States senator. But I know there comes a time when the torch must be passed,” Durbin said in a statement about his intentions. “Right now, the challenges facing our country are historic and unprecedented. The threats to our democracy and way of life are very real, and I can assure you that I will do everything in my power to fight for Illinois and the future of our country every day of my remaining time in the Senate.”
There was speculation earlier this month that Durbin might decline to run for reelection in 2027.
At a tour of the Southcom emergency dispatch center in Matteson on April 17, Kelly was asked if she was considering a Senate run and whether she had talked with Durbin about his plans.
“I’m seriously considering it. Yes,” she said. “We talk all the time, but this is a very personal decision and whatever he decides is what he decides and I’m supportive of it.”
WBEZ reported Wednesday that at least a dozen potential candidates for Durbin’s seat are considering a run, including Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton, Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi and Rep. Lauren Underwood.
Durbin is 80 and is the longest serving popularly elected senator from Illinois. He currently serves as the Senate Democratic Whip, the second highest ranking position among Senate Democrats. He is the longest serving whip for either party.
He was first elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1982, representing the Springfield-based 20th Congressional District. He was first elected to the U.S. Senate on November 5, 1996.