NEW YORK (AP) — Jack Schlossberg, the grandson of former President John F. Kennedy, has announced his candidacy for the U.S. House of Representatives in the upcoming election cycle. He is vying for the congressional seat in New York City that will be vacated by longtime Democratic Representative Jerry Nadler. Schlossberg made his announcement on Tuesday, framing his campaign around the idea that the Manhattan district deserves a representative capable of channeling the area’s creativity, energy, and ambition into political action in Washington.
At 32 years old, Schlossberg has established himself as a prominent social media figure, utilizing his platform to engage with political discourse. In a campaign video, he expressed his commitment to representing the district, which encompasses key areas of Manhattan, including Union Square, the Upper East Side, and the Upper West Side. He stressed the importance of effective representation that could translate the vibrancy of the community into political power.
Jerry Nadler, who has served an impressive 17 terms in Congress, announced in September that he would not pursue reelection in the upcoming cycle. His decision has opened the door for potential successors to take over in what remains a solidly Democratic district. Nadler alluded to the possibility that a younger Democratic representative could bring new energy and effectiveness to the role, stating that a younger lawmaker “can maybe do better, can maybe help us more.”
Several candidates have emerged in the race for Nadler's seat, one of whom is Micah Lasher, a former aide to Nadler and a current New York state lawmaker with considerable experience in government. This influx of potential candidates reflects the competitive nature of the race to represent the affluent and politically engaged electorate of Manhattan.
In his campaign messaging, Schlossberg did not shy away from critiquing the current state of political affairs. He specifically targeted former President Donald Trump and characterized the governance of the Republican Party in Washington as a crisis. Schlossberg emphasized the need for change, asserting that “we deserve better, and we can do better,” and called for the Democratic Party to regain control of the House of Representatives.
Schlossberg's rise as a political figure has been accompanied by a notable online presence where he frequently comments on national issues. He has also been vocal about his cousin, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who served as the Trump administration’s Secretary of Health and Human Services and has become known for his skeptical views on vaccines. In a recent Instagram post, Schlossberg even shared a mocking Halloween costume related to Kennedy’s “Make America Healthy Again” message, which he humorously noted included references to measles.
As Schlossberg embarks on his congressional campaign, his background and connections to one of America’s most storied political families provide him a unique platform. His ability to engage with a younger electorate and his focus on critical Democratic issues may position him as a formidable candidate in the impending election. With the race gaining momentum, it remains to be seen how Schlossberg’s campaign will resonate with voters in the heart of Manhattan.
