Jack Schlossberg Announces Run for Congress in New York

Jack Schlossberg, the grandson of President John F. Kennedy, is running for Congress. He will seek the Democratic nomination for New York’s 12th Congressional District. This marks a significant return of the Kennedy family to electoral politics.

His announcement follows the retirement of long-time Representative Jerry Nadler. Schlossberg aims to address pressing national issues from a progressive standpoint.

A Campaign Focused on Modern Challenges

Schlossberg is centering his campaign on several key crises. He highlights the high cost of living affecting many Americans. He also points to systemic corruption and threats to democratic institutions.

According to The New York Times, his platform includes “12 pledges” to his constituents. These pledges focus on affordability, healthcare, and government accountability. He is leveraging a strong social media presence to connect with younger voters.

His campaign video directly criticizes the current political climate. He argues for a new generation of leadership to tackle these problems.

The Kennedy Legacy and a Crowded Primary

Schlossberg enters a competitive Democratic primary field. Several local politicians and activists are also vying for the seat. This includes Assemblyman Micah Lasher and non-profit leader Liam Elkind.

He acknowledges his famous family name but seeks to define his own path. In an interview with CNN, he stated he wants to honor his grandfather’s legacy “organically.” He emphasizes his deep personal roots in the Manhattan district.

His candidacy is seen as part of a broader Democratic effort to regain control of the House of Representatives. The party views this seat as crucial for their 2026 midterm strategy.

Political Stances and Family Dynamics

Schlossberg has been openly critical of former President Donald Trump. He has also publicly feuded with his cousin, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., over public health policies. This highlights a clear political divergence within the Kennedy family.

He previously worked as a political correspondent for Vogue. This role helped him build a profile focused on engaging younger audiences with politics. His approach blends traditional policy with modern digital outreach.

The outcome of this primary will test the power of a political dynasty in a modern electoral landscape. Voters will decide if Schlossberg’s vision resonates in a diverse and politically active district.

Jack Schlossberg’s run for Congress represents a pivotal moment for the Kennedy political legacy. His campaign will test whether a new generation can translate a famous name into tangible change for New Yorkers.

Info at your fingertips

Who is Jack Schlossberg?

Jack Schlossberg is the only grandson of President John F. Kennedy. He is a lawyer and journalist now running for the U.S. House of Representatives in New York.

What district is he running in?

He is running in New York’s 12th Congressional District. This district covers parts of Manhattan including the Upper West Side and Midtown.

Who is his competition?

He faces a crowded Democratic primary. Other candidates include Assemblyman Micah Lasher and nonprofit CEO Liam Elkind.

What are his main policy issues?

His campaign focuses on lowering the cost of living, fighting government corruption, and protecting democracy. He has outlined specific pledges on these topics.

How is he related to RFK Jr.?

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is his cousin. Schlossberg has been publicly critical of RFK Jr.’s views on vaccines and public health.

What is his professional background?

Schlossberg graduated from Yale and Harvard Law and Business schools. He previously worked as a political correspondent for Vogue magazine.