Jack Schlossberg, the grandson of President John F. Kennedy, has recently announced his bid for Congress in New York City following the retirement news of longtime New York Representative Jerry Nadler. The 32-year-old Schlossberg disclosed his campaign plans through an email to supporters on November 11 and in an interview with The New York Times. He emphasized the necessity of a Democratic majority in the House of Representatives to restore democratic norms, addressing issues like the cost of living, corruption, and the current constitutional crisis.
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Schlossberg, the only grandson of the iconic President John F. Kennedy and Jackie Kennedy, has been actively defending his grandparents’ legacy, gaining a significant social media following in the process. While his provocative online presence has sparked both admiration and criticism, Schlossberg remains focused on making a positive impact within the Democratic Party, believing in the power of unexpected and controversial discourse to drive change. His web series, Test Drive, launched in July 2025, provides a platform for discussing current events and political insights.
The young Democrat’s journey into political engagement intensified notably as his relative Robert F. Kennedy Jr. ventured into a presidential bid in 2023, diverging from the majority support for Democratic incumbent Joe Biden within the Kennedy family. Schlossberg publicly criticised RFK Jr.’s actions, highlighting the importance of honouring his grandfather’s legacy of public service and courage. Schlossberg’s own academic and professional background, including a law degree from Harvard University, supports his commitment to continuing the family’s tradition of public service.
Following Nadler’s announcement of retirement from Congress, Schlossberg considered the potential of running for office and launched an exploratory committee for a possible 2026 campaign. The NY-12 House seat, representing Midtown and Uptown Manhattan, became a focal point of interest with Schlossberg’s entry into the race. Despite initial scepticism from some, Schlossberg has used his social media platforms to showcase his qualifications and address his vision for public service.
As Schlossberg gears up for the 2026 House race, he faces competition from other candidates, including New York State Assemblyman Micah Lasher and Gen Z Rhodes Scholar Liam Elkind. The campaign trail also features notable figures like former Rep. Carolyn Maloney, Cynthia Nixon of “Sex and the City” fame, journalist Molly Jong-Fast, and ex-Trump attorney Michael Cohen. Schlossberg’s aspirations echo his grandfather’s beginnings in Congress, underlining his dedication to following the family legacy of impactful public service.
The Kennedy family’s influence on American politics remains palpable as Jack Schlossberg takes steps toward his own congressional campaign, embodying a blend of tradition and modernity in his approach. With a mix of youthful energy and a deep-rooted commitment to public welfare, Schlossberg’s entrance into the political arena signifies a continuation of the Kennedy legacy, poised to make a distinctive mark in the upcoming House race.