Thank you, Senator Durbin.
Did you see this news, John?
Illinois’ longest serving Senator in state history, Dick Durbin, recently announced his retirement from the Senate, opting not to seek re-election in the 2026 midterm elections.
Senator Durbin has earned a lengthy record of advocacy and accomplishments to show for it.
Senator Durbin co-authored the original Dream Act and played a significant role in the creation of the DACA program. He has played a leading role in fighting for and achieving meaningful criminal justice reforms. He has also never shied away from taking on the special interests and right-wing extremism – and he’s long been a voice of reason, including as one of the only senators to vote against the Iraq War.
Now, Senator Durbin says he knows in his heart it’s time to “pass the torch.”
John, we need to see more of this courageous leadership in Washington. We know it’s not an easy decision – and we applaud Senator Durbin for making it.
So many of our elected leaders have long records of fighting for us. We are not here to bash them or diminish their service. But we are encouraging them to embrace and empower a new generation of leaders who can continue their fight.
Leaders We Deserve exists to provide a much-needed boost to young, bold progressives who are running for Congress and state legislatures. We elected a slate of young leaders in the last election – and we’re not planning to slow down.
In the midterm elections, we’re planning to help young leaders flip red seats blue in competitive seats across the country. And we’re launching a $20 million fund to help young candidates mount primary challenges against asleep-at-the-wheel Democrats who are failing to meet the moment. This will be our biggest year yet.
If you’re ready to help us elect the next generation of progressive leaders, we need your support more than ever. Can you rush a $5 contribution now?
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Thank you,
Leaders We Deserve
