John F. Kennedy’s grandson, John Bouvier Kennedy “Jack” Schlossberg, has formally launched a campaign for the U.S. House of Representatives. At 32 years old, Schlossberg is seeking the Democratic nomination for New York’s 12th Congressional District, a high-profile Manhattan seat being vacated by longtime Representative Jerry Nadler, who announced his retirement after more than three decades in Congress.
In a video announcing his candidacy, Schlossberg framed his campaign as an effort to bring “a new generation of leadership” to Washington, one that reflects the creativity, energy, and drive of his home district.
The Washington Post
He emphasized that he was born and raised in the district — noting that he even took the bus across Manhattan to school each day — and that his roots give him deep personal investment in its future.
NBC New York
Schlossberg’s campaign message is sharply critical of current economic and political conditions. He argues that the country is facing a “crisis at every level,” citing a growing cost-of-living burden, cuts to social services, and what he describes as a constitutional crisis under Republican leadership.
Yahoo
He has called for Democrats to regain control of the House of Representatives in the 2026 midterm elections, warning that without such control, the party’s ability to address core issues like corruption, health care, and education will remain limited.
The Independent
+1
A key part of Schlossberg’s public profile is his strong social media presence. With more than a million followers across TikTok and Instagram, he has used his platforms to offer political commentary, satire, and insight into his worldview.
The Washington Post
+1
Before entering politics, he worked as a political correspondent for Vogue during the 2024 election cycle, combining his media savvy with his background in public service.
Yahoo
Academically, Schlossberg is well credentialed. He holds a history degree from Yale University and both a law degree and an MBA from Harvard, and he passed the New York State Bar exam in 2023.
The Washington Post
His campaign also marks his first run for public office.
Schlossberg isn’t shying away from intra-family political debate either: he has publicly criticized his cousin, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., accusing him of opportunism and casting doubt on his political motives.
The Independent
Critics, however, question his political experience, with some pointing to his lack of prior elected service.
New York Post
Still, Schlossberg’s name carries tremendous weight. As a scion of the Kennedy dynasty—among America’s most storied political families—his candidacy is bound to draw national attention. His campaign opens amid a broader Democratic push for “generational change,” an idea Nadler himself endorsed when he announced he would step aside.
apnews.com
+1
