CHICAGO (WLS) — Sen. Dick Durbin says he is just weeks away from announcing plans for his political future.
And that decision will have seismic implications across the political landscape in Illinois.
ABC7 Chicago is now streaming 24/7. Click here to watch
After nearly thirty years in the Senate, Durbin holds the position of the second-highest-ranking Democrat. His upcoming choice of whether to run for reelection will not only impact his own Senate seat but also influence other political races.
Durbin could open the door to the biggest political scramble in Illinois in quite some time should he decide not to seek another term.
“I’ll be making an announcement in a few weeks,” Durbin said.
“Illinois is currently captivated by the political speculation surrounding Dick Durbin. Everyone is eagerly waiting for his decision because if he chooses not to run, it could trigger a flurry of candidates vying for his seat,” remarked Laura Washington, a political analyst from ABC7 Chicago.
Durbin visited the Nourishing Hope pantry Friday to call attention to the impact of potential federal cuts to food assistance programs.
RELATED: Sen. Dick Durbin, others in Chicago push back on proposed federal budget cuts to Medicaid
“Being able to contribute positively and steer conversations towards progress gives me a sense of accomplishment. If my efforts can play a part in ensuring that Nourishing Hope continues to thrive, then that, to me, is a fulfilling day,” stated Durbin.
Should Durbin decide to pack it in after this term, there are many likely or potential replacements waiting in the wings.
They include Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton and three members of Congress, Raja Krishnamoorthi, Lauren Underwood and Robin Kelly.
They also include four statewide officeholders: Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias, Attorney General Kwame Raoul, Treasurer Mike Frerichs and Comptroller Susana Mendoza.
“If Dick Durbin would decide to run for reelection, that would close opportunities for that race. So then someone like Alexi Giannoulias, someone like Susana Mendoza, would be looking at other opportunities, like mayor of Chicago,” Washington said.
“Well, it’s personal, and I mentioned my wife, and it’s a personal family decision more than anything else,” Durbin said.
When asked if he had the stamina at 80 years old to serve another six-year term, Durbin said, “I’m certain I do.”
Durbin’s love for the job means he might be keeping the door open to running again in 2026.
On April 16 and 17, the Cook County Democratic Party will hold pre-slating meetings for the 2026 primary. That could have an impact on the timing of Durbin’s decision.
Copyright © 2025 WLS-TV. All Rights Reserved.
