Jack Schlossberg, the 33-year-old grandson of President John F. Kennedy, is running for Congress in New York's 12th Congressional District, one of the most reliably Democratic seats in the country. The race will determine who succeeds retiring Rep. Jerry Nadler after his 17 terms representing Manhattan's wealthy district. Schlossberg has garnered significant attention, secured the endorsement of former Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi, and built momentum with favorable press coverage as voters prepare to go to the polls on June 23.
Schlossberg's campaign centers on what he calls a mission to restore faith in government and the Democratic Party. His slogan is "believe in something again." He argues that the party is struggling at the federal level and needs new approaches to connect with voters. The candidate has released more policy proposals than any other campaign in the race and says he is running an insurgent outsider campaign, despite his prominent family name.
The New York Times recently published a story detailing concerns about Schlossberg's candidacy, including reports of missed meetings, erratic behavior, and high staff turnover. Schlossberg has aggressively disputed the reporting, characterizing it as an attack from political opponents and noting that sources were unnamed. He described the campaign as running differently than traditional political operations, having decided early on to avoid conventional consultants and corporate PAC money.
What the Left Is Saying
Progressive supporters point to Schlossberg's ability to energize young voters as a key strength for Democrats. During the 2024 Biden-Harris campaign, Schlossberg served as one of the top surrogates, drawing large crowds and enthusiasm, particularly among younger demographics. His backers argue that his social media savvy and fresh approach could help the party break through in an increasingly fragmented political landscape.
Democratic strategists who support his candidacy note that he is not taking money from corporate PACs, AIPAC, or AI companies, positioning himself as a contrast to special interest influence. Supporters within the party say his family legacy brings attention to issues that might otherwise go uncovered and argue that his outsider status within Democratic Party politics could be an asset rather than a liability in an era of voter disillusionment with establishment politicians.
What the Right Is Saying
Critics from both parties have questioned whether Schlossberg's background is sufficient for Congress at this moment. His opponents note that he has not held a single steady job and was 33 years old without a clear career trajectory before launching his campaign. Political observers point out that while Harvard and Yale degrees are impressive credentials, they do not substitute for legislative experience or demonstrated accomplishment in governance.
Some Democratic voters and commentators have expressed unease about dynastic politics, arguing that the Kennedy name should not itself be qualification for office. Others note that Congress currently operates with a 10% approval rating and question whether another newcomer without institutional relationships can effectively advocate for the district. Republican critics have noted that Schlossberg's criticism of President Trump is aggressive but may not reflect broader voter sentiment in competitive races elsewhere.
What the Numbers Show
Schlossberg has outraised every other candidate in the Democratic primary, according to his campaign claims. He reports not using a super PAC and refusing corporate PAC contributions, which limits fundraising potential compared to traditional candidates. The 12th Congressional District is one of the wealthiest in the country and has voted reliably Democratic for decades, meaning the winner of the June 23 primary is highly likely to win the general election.
At 33 years old, Schlossberg would be among the youngest members of Congress if elected. His two main opponents include a candidate who completed one full term in the New York State Assembly and another who has completed zero full terms in any legislative office. All three candidates are Democrats running to succeed Nadler, whose retirement ends an era of institutional continuity in Manhattan's representation.
The Bottom Line
The Schlossberg candidacy represents both an opportunity and a test for Democrats seeking to rebuild relevance after losing federal power. His ability to attract media attention and youth engagement is well-documented, but questions about his preparedness for legislative work remain unanswered beyond his own assurances that he can "read and understand legislation as well as anybody." The June 23 primary will reveal whether Manhattan's Democratic voters prioritize the Kennedy name and fresh approach or prefer candidates with more traditional political resumes. What happens in this safely blue district may offer clues about how younger, media-savvy candidates navigate increasingly skeptical electorates.