Illinois Senator Dick Durbin, the second-highest ranking Democrat in the U.S. Senate, has announced he will retire after 44 years of service. The 80-year-old Democrat revealed that he will not seek re-election in 2026, stating, "In my heart, I know it's time to pass the torch."
In a video posted on X, Durbin acknowledged the historic challenges facing the country and vowed to continue fighting for Illinois and the nation during his remaining time in the Senate.
I have given more than half of my life to House and Senate Congressional service, and I’ve always tried to stand up to power on behalf of the people of Illinois and our country.
— Senator Dick Durbin (@SenatorDurbin) April 23, 2025
I am proud of what I have achieved and hope my record will speak for itself. pic.twitter.com/oiY49IQCUF
He also praised his colleague, Illinois Senator Tammy Duckworth, who will take over as the state’s senior senator, calling her a "trusted friend and effective leader." Durbin’s announcement echoes President Joe Biden’s own reflections on leadership transition and generational change.
