Illinois Rep. Jan Schakowsky, a staunch progressive who has represented the Chicago area since 1999, announced Monday that she will not seek another term in Congress.
The 80-year-old Democrat is serving her 14th term in the House, and her retirement will kick off a flurry of party interest in the deep-blue 9th District.
“For my entire career, I have made it my mission to mentor and guide the next generation of leaders,” Schakowsky said in a statement. “In fact, when I talk with students, I do not ask them what they want to be when they grow up, I ask them what they want to do today to make a difference in this world. It is now time for me to pass the baton.”
