Jack Schlossberg, the grandson of President John F. Kennedy, has announced his candidacy for the U.S. House of Representatives, aiming to represent New York’s 12th congressional district in the 2026 election. His decision comes as he seeks to replace retiring Rep. Jerry Nadler and has been framed as a response to current political and economic challenges.
Schlossberg, 32, is the only son of Caroline Kennedy and has gained prominence as a writer and political commentator with a substantial social media following. He made the announcement late on November 11, 2025, through an Instagram post where he outlined his motivations and criticized the Republican-led economic policies, including President Donald Trump’s “Big Beautiful Bill,” which he claims has exacerbated living costs and reduced funding for vital services.
The candidate emphasized that his run is crucial for restoring Democratic control of the House, arguing that without it, the party is powerless to address issues like healthcare, education, and child care. He stated, “With control of Congress, there’s nothing we can’t do. Without it, we’re helpless to a third term,” highlighting the stakes of the upcoming elections.
New York’s 12th district, which includes parts of Manhattan, has been represented by Jerry Nadler since 1992. Nadler, who announced his retirement in September, has been a key figure in Congress, particularly during impeachment proceedings. However, he has expressed doubts about Schlossberg’s candidacy, noting in a CNN interview that Schlossberg lacks a record of public service and accomplishment.
Schlossberg’s entry into the race adds a notable name to a crowded Democratic primary field, which includes figures like former Nadler aide Micah Lasher, financial executive Alan Pardee, and community organizer Liam Elkind. As the first Kennedy family member to run for Congress since Joe Kennedy III’s unsuccessful Senate bid in 2020, Schlossberg carries a legacy but also faces scrutiny over his qualifications.
Beyond his political ambitions, Schlossberg is known for his active online presence, with nearly 1.5 million followers across Instagram and TikTok, where he blends humor with commentary. He spoke at the 2024 Democratic National Convention, reinforcing his status as a rising star in the party, though his unconventional posts, such as joking about having a baby with Vice President JD Vance’s wife, have sometimes sparked controversy.
The campaign is set against a backdrop of intense political polarization, with Schlossberg positioning himself as a defender of democratic norms against what he calls a “constitutional crisis.” His criticism extends to his cousin, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., whom he has urged to resign from his role in the Trump administration over concerns about health disinformation.
As the race develops, Schlossberg will need to navigate primary challenges and build a coalition that resonates with voters in the district. The outcome could signal shifts in Democratic strategy and the influence of new media in politics, with implications for the party’s future in a closely divided House.
