Democratic Representative Jerry Nadler, the senior member of New York’s congressional delegation, announced he will not run for reelection next year. The 78-year-old lawmaker said it was time for a generational change, allowing a younger leader to take the helm.
In an interview published Monday, Nadler told the New York Times that he believes a new representative could bring fresh energy and help the district more effectively. He did not suggest a successor but mentioned that many of his allies may consider entering the race.
The announcement comes shortly after 26-year-old Democrat Liam Elkind declared his candidacy, challenging Nadler in the primary. Elkind had framed his campaign as a respectful request for Nadler to retire after decades in Congress.
Elkind praised Nadler’s long service in a statement, saying, “He has led this district and this country with humanity, kindness, and intelligence. We are better for his leadership.”
New York Governor Kathy Hochul also recognized Nadler’s decades of public service. She described him as “a champion, a fighter, and a trusted voice for New Yorkers,” highlighting his contributions to the state and country.
Nadler served as chairman of the House Judiciary Committee from 2019 to 2023. During that time, he oversaw significant legislative and investigative actions, including the first articles of impeachment against former President Donald Trump. The impeachment focused on allegations that Trump abused his office by pressuring Ukraine to investigate political rivals while withholding U.S. security aid. The House approved the articles, though Trump was later acquitted in the Senate trial in 2020.
Beyond impeachment efforts, Nadler championed landmark legislation such as the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act. Signed into law by President Joe Biden in 2022, the law protects employees from discrimination related to pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions. Nadler’s advocacy helped ensure workplace protections for thousands of Americans.
Representing New York’s 12th Congressional District, Nadler has served constituents in the Upper West and Upper East Sides of Manhattan, as well as Midtown. In the 2022 election, he won a contested primary in a newly redrawn district that paired him with another incumbent.
Nadler’s decision to retire places him among several Democratic lawmakers stepping down this year. The list includes Representatives Dwight Evans of Pennsylvania, Danny Davis and Jan Schakowsky of Illinois, as well as Senators Gary Peters of Michigan, Jeanne Shaheen of New Hampshire, and Tina Smith of Minnesota.
Throughout his nearly 50-year political career, Nadler earned a reputation as a dedicated and principled legislator. He consistently focused on civil rights, justice, and the protection of workers, leaving a lasting impact on both his district and national policy.
With his retirement, New York’s 12th District is expected to see a competitive primary as new candidates aim to continue Nadler’s legacy. Observers note that this transition could bring fresh ideas and energy to a seat long held by one of Congress’s most experienced lawmakers.
As Nadler prepares to step away from public office, his decision signals a broader shift in the Democratic Party toward younger leadership. Many see this as an opportunity for renewal while honoring decades of service by seasoned members like Nadler.
