Clinton and Kennedy heirs weigh in on running for Nadler’s New York seat

Sen. Durbin announces retirement as age becomes 'toxic' issue for party

Senior congressional correspondent Chad Pergram reports the latest on Sen. Dick Durbin's retirement and the future of the Democratic Party from Capitol Hill.

Chelsea Clinton is not considering a run for Rep. Jerry Nadler’s soon-to-be-vacant New York congressional seat, her spokesperson confirmed to the Washington Examiner on Wednesday, dismissing "rumors" to the contrary.

Meanwhile, John F. Kennedy’s grandson, Jack Schlossberg, told The New York Times Tuesday a campaign for Nadler’s Manhattan seat is "certainly a possibility."

Nadler’s decision to retire after more than three decades in Congress opens up one of the most influential Democratic strongholds in Manhattan. 

The speculation that heirs from two of America’s most prominent Democratic political dynasties could seek the seat sets the stage for a high-profile primary fight.

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Chelsea Clinton speaks onstage during the World Eating Disorder Action Day Summit 2025 at the United Nations June 2, 2025, in New York City.   (Sean Zanni/Getty Images for National Alliance for Eating Disorders)

Nadler, 78, announced Monday that "this term in Congress will be my last," citing the need to "pass the torch to a new generation." 

In an interview with The New York Times, Nadler said "watching the [Joe] Biden thing really said something about the necessity for generational change in the party."

Chelsea Clinton, vice chair of the Clinton Foundation and daughter of former President Bill Clinton, has previously batted down speculation about running for office.

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Schlossberg claims a run for Nadler's open New York congressional seat is a "possibility." (Getty Images)

In 2019, she told ABC News she was not interested in seeking Rep. Nita Lowey’s seat when rumors swirled at that time. Her denial Wednesday to the Washington Examiner makes clear she is not entering this race.

Jack Schlossberg, 32, an attorney and writer, has occasionally hinted at political ambitions. His comment to The New York Times that a congressional run is "certainly a possibility" is his clearest public signal yet that he may consider following in his family’s political footsteps.

Rep. Jerrold Nadler, D-N.Y., speaks to members of the media outside the Greater New York Federal Building May 28, 2025, in New York.  (Yuki Iwamura, File, AP Photo)

Schlossberg has turned heads on social media for his comedic antics and satirical videos of figures like first lady Melania Trump.

Early reporting suggests a wide Democratic field may emerge, including progressive activists and perhaps local elected officials, though no major announcements have been made yet.

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The open race for Nadler’s Manhattan seat is expected to draw national attention and big-name donors. Whether a Clinton or a Kennedy ultimately runs, the contest is already shaping up as a test of Democratic Party power in one of its safest districts.

Representatives for Chelsea Clinton and Jack Schlossberg did not immediately return Fox News Digital's request for comment.

Fox News' Louis Casiano contributed to this report.

Jasmine Baehr is a Breaking News Writer for Fox News Digital, where she covers politics, the military, faith and culture.