A New Generation of Kennedy Politics
The American political landscape is poised for a significant development as Jack Schlossberg, the grandson of President John F. Kennedy, prepares to launch his campaign for Congress. The 32-year-old social media personality is gearing up to formally announce his bid for the open House seat in New York's 12th Congressional District, a move that could extend his family's enduring political dynasty.
The Crowded Race for a Safe Seat
Schlossberg's entry follows the decision of 78-year-old Jerrold Nadler, one of the oldest members of the Democratic caucus, to retire after an impressive 34 years in office. According to reports from Politico, Schlossberg took the preliminary step of forming an exploratory committee in September and is expected to make his official announcement next week. A source close to the matter confirmed, 'It's happening,' noting that the potential candidate has already begun hiring campaign staff and discussing his run with elected officials.
He will be entering a fiercely contested Democratic primary, scheduled for June 23, 2026, to represent a district where Kamala Harris defeated Donald Trump by a staggering 64 points. The field is expected to be packed with contenders, including two members of the New York State Assembly, a city council member, and 26-year-old Rhodes Scholar Liam Elkind. Other rumoured candidates span a diverse political spectrum, from anti-gun activist Cameron Kasky and former Trump attorney Michael Cohen to actress and former gubernatorial candidate Cynthia Nixon. Notably, Chelsea Clinton has declined to run despite previous speculation.
The Candidate: From Social Media to Public Service
Jack Schlossberg is no ordinary political hopeful. The son of JFK's only daughter, Caroline Kennedy, he is a graduate of both Harvard and Yale and has built a substantial following as a liberal heartthrob on social media platforms. With over 171,000 followers on X, 721,000 on Instagram, and 835,000 on TikTok, he has cultivated his profile by sharing a mix of content, from shirtless photos and quirky clips of himself practising ballet to hoverboarding while reciting poetry.
Despite his online fame, he has been active in progressive politics. He spoke at the 2024 Democratic National Convention and has used his platforms to frequently criticise his cousin, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Furthermore, he has been appointed to the America 250 Commission by Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer.
However, his potential candidacy is not without its critics. The incumbent, Jerrold Nadler, commented on his potential successor last month, stating, 'There's nothing particularly good or bad about a Kennedy holding my seat. But the Kennedy, unlike Schlossberg, should be somebody with a record of public service, a record of public accomplishment, and he doesn't have one.'
Nadler cited the scrutiny over President Joe Biden's age and cognitive decline as a key reason for his retirement, emphasising a need for generational change within the Democratic Party. 'Watching the Biden thing really said something about the necessity for generational change in the party, and I think I want to respect that,' Nadler told The New York Times.
As the political torch looks set to be passed in this historically safe Democratic seat, all eyes will be on Jack Schlossberg to see if he can translate his famous name and social media influence into a successful career in Congress.
