Jack Schlossberg, JFK’s Grandson, Launches Run for Congress in New York

JFK’s Grandson Steps Into the Political Arena

Jack Schlossberg, the only grandson of $1 John F. Kennedy, has made headlines by announcing his candidacy for the U.S. House of Representatives from New York City. Schlossberg’s decision marks the first time a direct descendant of JFK has sought federal office, extending the Kennedy political legacy into a new generation and a new era of American politics. As he steps forward, Schlossberg finds himself both inheriting and redefining a storied name in a turbulent political climate.

A Campaign Born in Crisis

Schlossberg’s announcement comes at a moment he describes as a “turning point” for the country. In his campaign launch video, he points to mounting challenges: a cost-of-living crisis fueled by sweeping legislative changes, historic cuts to social programs such as healthcare, education, and childcare, and what he calls a “corruption crisis.” He draws sharp criticism of President Donald Trump, alleging that the president is “picking winners and losers from inside the Oval Office” and presiding over “cronyism, not capitalism.” Schlossberg also warns of a “constitutional crisis,” with one man exerting dangerous influence over all three branches of government.

His message is clear: Schlossberg wants to rally his district—and by extension, the country—against what he sees as threats to civil rights and democratic norms. Yet, he carefully balances the weight of his family’s legacy, noting to CNN that he intends to “pay homage to my grandfather organically.” JFK, he says, “broke the mold.”

Roots in New York’s 12th District

While Schlossberg’s lineage draws national attention, his campaign is firmly rooted in New York City. The 12th Congressional District, which he hopes to represent, covers a vibrant swath of Manhattan—from Union Square through Midtown and up to the Upper West and Upper East Sides. Schlossberg emphasizes his deep personal connection to the area: “I was born and raised in this district. I took the bus to school every single day from one side to the other.” He attended the prestigious Collegiate School and, later, Yale University for his undergraduate studies, followed by joint degrees in law and business from Harvard.

Schlossberg’s campaign aims to connect with constituents on issues that matter to everyday New Yorkers, from affordable housing to healthcare. He promises “12 pledges” to the district, outlined on his campaign website, and calls for leadership that reflects the creativity and energy of Manhattan itself.

Embracing a New Generation

At 32, Schlossberg positions himself as part of the progressive, younger wing of the Democratic Party. His social media presence—amassing nearly two million followers across platforms like Instagram and TikTok—has become a hallmark of his campaign. Schlossberg is known for freewheeling, sometimes provocative political commentary, and he’s not shy about criticizing both Republicans and dissenting members of his extended family.

He frequently clashes with Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Trump’s Health and Human Services secretary and Schlossberg’s estranged cousin, whom he has called a “threat to public health.” In a viral post, Schlossberg declared, “RFK LOSER IS A THREAT TO PUBLIC HEALTH and AMERICAN SCIENTIFIC LEADERSHIP.” His outspoken style has drawn both praise and controversy, but it aligns him with younger voters seeking authenticity and reform in politics.

Schlossberg told The New York Times that Democrats need more voices to “push back on perceived abuses of power by President Trump and his allies.” He argues that regaining control of Congress is essential: “Without control of Congress, there’s almost nothing that we can do.”

A Crowded Field and Party Hopes

Schlossberg enters a competitive Democratic primary. The seat he seeks is currently held by Rep. Jerry Nadler, a fixture in New York politics for over three decades, who announced his retirement in September. Other contenders include Assemblyman Micah Lasher, nonprofit CEO Liam Elkind, state assemblymembers Alex Bores and Tony Simone, New York City Council member Erik Bottcher, activist Cameron Kasky, and veteran journalist Jami Floyd. The diversity of candidates signals a race that will test not just name recognition but also policy depth and community engagement.

Notably, Zohran Mamdani, the newly elected millennial mayor of New York City, has not yet endorsed any candidate in the primary. Schlossberg previously supported Mamdani’s mayoral bid, highlighting their shared commitment to progressive causes and generational change.

Legacy Meets Modern Media

The Kennedy name remains powerful, but Schlossberg is acutely aware of the need to translate legacy into relevance. He joined Vogue as a political correspondent during the 2024 presidential election, using his platform to make politics accessible and engaging for younger audiences. BBC described his online persona as “silly goose” antics—an intentional effort to break the mold of traditional political communication.

Three generations of Kennedys have served in elected office, from JFK himself to his brothers Robert and Ted, and now to Schlossberg. Yet, the family’s political influence is complicated by internal divisions, particularly surrounding RFK Jr.’s controversial stance on public health. Schlossberg has been clear in distancing himself from those views, maintaining his focus on progressive policy and democratic values.

Democratic Strategy for 2026

Schlossberg’s campaign is part of a broader Democratic strategy to regain control of the House in the 2026 midterm elections. After a strong showing in 2024, Democrats hope that fresh faces like Schlossberg can reinvigorate the party, challenge President Trump’s agenda, and address issues like the cost of living and government accountability.

“There is nothing our party can’t do to address costs of living, corruption and the constitutional crisis that we’re in,” Schlossberg told The Guardian. “But without the control of Congress, there’s almost nothing that we can do.” His entry into the race signals the party’s desire for generational renewal and a more dynamic approach to engaging voters.

The Road Ahead

Schlossberg’s campaign is still in its early stages, but the stakes are high. The race for New York’s 12th District will be closely watched—not just as a test of the Kennedy legacy, but as a measure of how well progressive, digitally savvy candidates can mobilize voters in one of the nation’s most influential urban centers.

As Schlossberg puts it, “This is our last chance to stop Trump—it won’t come again.” Whether his campaign can translate social media influence into electoral success remains to be seen. But as he joins a crowded field, the nation will be watching to see if JFK’s grandson can carve out his own place in history.

Jack Schlossberg’s candidacy is more than a continuation of the Kennedy dynasty; it’s a test of whether youthful energy, digital engagement, and progressive values can break through in a legacy district. In an era where authenticity and reform are demanded, Schlossberg faces both the weight of history and the challenge of forging his own path—one that could reshape the Democratic Party’s future in New York and beyond.