Schlossberg Announces Congressional Bid for NY-12
Jack Schlossberg, 33, grandson of former President John F. Kennedy, has announced his candidacy for the U.S. Congress. He is seeking to represent New York's 12th Congressional District, an announcement made in November. The seat is currently held by Representative Jerrold Nadler, who confirmed his retirement in September after more than 30 years in office. Former Speaker Nancy Pelosi is reportedly planning to endorse Schlossberg in the upcoming June Democratic primary, where he will compete against several other candidates.
Candidacy and Rationale
Schlossberg formally entered the race for the 12th Congressional District, which encompasses central Manhattan, including Central Park. In his announcement video, Schlossberg stated his intention to represent his home district, where he was born and raised. He described the district as the "financial and media capital of the world" and expressed that it should have a representative capable of translating its creativity and energy into political influence in Washington.
He also conveyed his belief that the Democratic Party requires more individuals to "push back on perceived abuses of power by President Trump and his allies." Schlossberg has cited his family's legacy of public service as an inspiration and has referred to his grandfather, John F. Kennedy, as a hero.
JFK's administration was characterized by Schlossberg as "a blueprint for how progressivism can work in America."
Endorsement and Primary Field
Former Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., plans to endorse Schlossberg in his bid for the House seat. This information was reported by NBC News, citing a source familiar with the matter, following an initial report by The New York Times.
Schlossberg will participate in a crowded Democratic primary scheduled for June. Other candidates vying for the seat include State Assemblymembers Micah Lasher and Alex Bores, and conservative lawyer George Conway, who is also running as a Democrat.
Background
Schlossberg is a cousin of Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., whom he has publicly criticized. He maintains a significant online presence with a combined following of nearly two million across Instagram and TikTok. In 2024, Vogue magazine appointed him as a political correspondent ahead of the U.S. election.