JFK Grandson Jack Schlossberg Launches House Campaign for NY 12th District/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ Jack Schlossberg, grandson of former President John F. Kennedy, is officially running for Congress in New York’s 12th District. Announcing his campaign with sharp criticism of President Trump, Schlossberg positions himself as part of a progressive new generation. He enters a crowded Democratic field aiming to succeed retiring Rep. Jerry Nadler.
Jack Schlossberg Congressional Run Quick Looks
- JFK’s grandson Jack Schlossberg enters U.S. House race
- Running to replace retiring Rep. Jerry Nadler in NY-12
- Campaign message criticizes Trump, cost-of-living, civil rights erosion
- Schlossberg: “We are in a crisis at every level”
- Positioning himself with the progressive wing of the Democratic Party
- Known for viral, unconventional social media videos
- Supports generational shift in Democratic leadership
- Son of Caroline Kennedy and Edwin Schlossberg
- Faces potential challengers including Assemblyman Micah Lasher and others
- Democrats aim to regain momentum ahead of 2026 midterms
Deep Look: Jack Schlossberg, Grandson of JFK, Enters NY House Race With Progressive Message
NEW YORK — Jack Schlossberg, the only grandson of President John F. Kennedy, has announced his candidacy for the U.S. House of Representatives, marking the next chapter in the Kennedy family’s storied political legacy. At age 32, Schlossberg is running to represent New York’s 12th Congressional District, a seat being vacated by longtime Democratic Congressman Jerry Nadler.
In a campaign launch video, Schlossberg cast the 2026 race as a referendum on the country’s direction, highlighting rising costs, systemic corruption, and the growing influence of President Donald Trump, whom he accuses of eroding democratic institutions.
“It’s a crisis at every level,” Schlossberg said. “A cost-of-living crisis… a corruption crisis… and a constitutional crisis with one dangerous man in control of all three branches of government.”
A Familiar Name, A New Voice
Though he doesn’t mention his famous ancestry in his launch video, Schlossberg is the son of Caroline Kennedy and Edwin Schlossberg, and the grandson of the 35th president of the United States. He was “born and raised” in the district, which spans Union Square, Midtown Manhattan, and the Upper East and West Sides.
“I took the bus to school every single day from one side of the district to the other,” said Schlossberg, an alumnus of the elite Collegiate School.
Despite the Kennedy lineage, Schlossberg is making a clear pitch for generational change, positioning himself with the progressive wing of the Democratic Party.
In interviews and online posts, Schlossberg emphasized his ability to connect with young voters in what he called today’s “toxic, polluted media environment.”
“I breathe that air,” he told CNN, referring to the social media landscape. Known for his unorthodox and viral videos, Schlossberg has become a rising political personality online.
He previously teased his run on X (formerly Twitter) in September, shortly after Nadler announced his retirement:
“Hey guys — have formed an exploratory committee.”
Progressive Platform, Sharp Criticism of Trump
In his campaign messaging, Schlossberg takes direct aim at President Donald Trump, accusing him of undermining democracy and fueling inequality. His rhetoric aligns closely with young progressive leaders pressing for major reforms in healthcare, education, and campaign finance.
He’s already backed other left-leaning figures, including Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani, and stirred controversy by dismissing concerns about clashing with New York political elites.
“I don’t give a f**k” about crossing Andrew Cuomo, Schlossberg said — a reference to the former governor, once married to his relative Kerry Kennedy.
Schlossberg has also publicly criticized Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Trump’s current Health and Human Services Secretary and a fellow family member, over his views on science and medicine.
“RFK LOSER IS A THREAT TO PUBLIC HEALTH and AMERICAN SCIENTIFIC LEADERSHIP,” Schlossberg posted in September.
A Crowded Field in NY-12
The race for Nadler’s seat is expected to be highly competitive. Already in the race is Assemblyman Micah Lasher, who is seen as Nadler’s preferred successor, and Liam Elkind, a civic leader who gained attention during the pandemic for organizing food and medicine deliveries.
Other potential contenders include:
- Former Rep. Carolyn Maloney
- Assemblymembers Alex Bores and Tony Simone
- New York City Council member Erik Bottcher
- Parkland survivor and activist Cameron Kasky
Schlossberg’s youth and high-profile name could help him stand out, but he’ll face stiff competition in a Democratic stronghold where endorsements, fundraising, and community ties will play key roles.
The Kennedy Political Legacy Lives On
Schlossberg would be the latest in a long line of Kennedys to seek public office. John F. Kennedy, his grandfather, served in both the House and Senate before becoming president. JFK’s brothers Robert and Ted Kennedy also had long political careers as U.S. senators.
While Robert F. Kennedy Jr. currently serves under President Trump, much of the Kennedy family has publicly distanced themselves from his views. Schlossberg’s candidacy represents a return to the family’s Democratic and progressive roots.
“I’ll honor my grandfather organically,” Schlossberg told CNN. “He broke the mold.”
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