IFT Statement on Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky's Announcement to Not Seek Re-election

Illinois Federation of Teachers (IFT) President Dan Montgomery issued the following statement after Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky announced that she will not seek re-election.

Throughout her career, Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky has been a tireless champion for public school educators, public employees, and working families. A former elementary school teacher and proud union member of UNITE-HERE, she has always understood the value of public service and collective power.

She was a powerful force in the fight against school vouchers. When the IFT and advocacy groups pushed lawmakers not to renew the Invest in Kids voucher program, Congresswoman Schakowsky organized members of the congressional delegation to oppose it, playing a critical role in our shared victory.

Congresswoman Schakowsky’s deep commitment to labor and progressive causes is reflected in her continued involvement with organizations that IFT proudly partners with. She serves on the policy council of Citizen Action Illinois and helped found the Illinois State Council of Senior Citizens, which later became the Illinois Alliance of Retired Americans (IARA). Her long-standing coalition work continues to unite labor, education, and retiree rights advocates.

During her time in Congress, Congresswoman Schakowsky has fiercely advocated for women, children, seniors, and vulnerable communities. Her legacy includes advancing access to health care, protecting reproductive freedom, and defending workers’ rights.

I’m proud to call Congresswoman Schakowsky not only my representative, but also a friend. It’s a privilege to be represented by one of the most courageous, principled, and effective leaders in Congress.

On behalf of the more than 103,000 members of the IFT, we are deeply grateful for Congresswoman Schakowsky’s decades of principled leadership. Her presence in Congress will be sorely missed, but her impact will continue to inspire future generations.”