Jan's Plans & Pans - December 23, 2025

Dear John xxxxxx,

As we come to the end of the year, I want to take a moment to reflect with you.

This has been a challenging year for so many in our community. Too many people are facing uncertainty, anxiety, and real hardship. A partisan and avoidable government shutdown left families and workers in limbo, with millions facing higher health care costs. Terrifying and illegal anti-immigrant raids continue to spread fear throughout our neighborhoods. Federal workers missed paychecks, essential services were disrupted, and immigrant families—many of whom are our neighbors, coworkers, and friends—are living in fear for their safety and their futures.

And yet, even in the hardest moments, I remain hopeful.

I am hopeful because of the strength and compassion I see every day across the 9th Congressional District. Neighbors are showing up for one another. Local organizations are stepping up to help families stay afloat. Advocates continue to raise their voices for dignity, fairness, and justice. We are stronger when we stand together.

No matter what, my office and I are here to help you. We truly have the best constituent service team in the nation, and I mean that. Whether you are dealing with a federal agency, facing immigration-related concerns, impacted by the shutdown, or simply need help navigating government services, my team stands ready to assist in any way we can. Helping you is the most important part of my job. You can call my Washington, D.C. office at (202) 225-2111 or my Skokie office at (773) 506-7100 with any concerns or questions.

As we look toward the new year, I remain committed to fighting for a government that works for everyone, one that treats families with compassion, protects our neighbors, and delivers the services people depend on. There is much work ahead, but together, we will keep pushing forward.

Thank you for your resilience, your courage, and your trust. I wish you and your loved ones peace, health, and hope in the year ahead.

With love,

Schakowsky Advocates for Safer Toys Ahead of the Holiday Season

This year’s Trouble in Toyland report from Illinois PIRG makes one thing clear: too many dangerous toys are still reaching our kids. It was powerful hearing a firsthand account from Taylor Bethard, a young mom whose daughter died after ingesting a dangerous water bead. We cannot accept this. We must ensure the products on our shelves are safe, especially for our children.

Follow Me on BlueSky

During this fraught time, it is more important than ever that we stand together and stay connected. Follow me on Bluesky to keep up with my latest work on behalf of the 9th Congressional District of Illinois. Click here to follow.

Passport Renewal

Remember to check your passport validity before booking any travel plans! Current processing times for passports are: 4-6 weeks for routine and 2-3 weeks for expedited. These times are subject to change and are posted on the Dept. of State Website.  Please apply well in advance of your travel date – if your travel date is sooner than the current processing times, you may not get your passport in time for travel.

Please remember that emergency in-person appointments at the Chicago Passport Agency are intended for emergencies and availability is not guaranteed unless it is a life or death emergency! These appointments are not and have never been intended for routine renewal. If you have upcoming travel you should NOT plan on receiving an appointment at the Chicago Passport Agency. Passport renewals are intended to go through the mail. 

Did you know that many countries require your passport to be valid for several months beyond your date of travel? Depending on your destination, validity requirements can vary from 3 to 6 months beyond the date of travel! You can check the requirements for your destination on the Dept. of State Website under "International Travel" and "Country Information".

If you have planned travel and have a pending application that may not arrive on time, or if you need an emergency appointment at the Chicago Passport Agency, the Constituent Advocates in my District Office are happy to help! Please call the office at 773-506-7100, or you can open a case with my office online.