CaliToday (09/11/2025): The 32-year-old’s bid to replace the retiring Jerry Nadler sets the stage for a dramatic Democratic primary, pitting a legendary family name and viral fame against a field of seasoned political veterans.
A new generation of the Kennedy dynasty is officially stepping into the political ring. Jack Schlossberg, the 32-year-old grandson of President John F. Kennedy and a prominent social media personality, is reportedly preparing to launch a campaign for New York's 12th Congressional District.
The announcement, first reported by Politico, confirms weeks of speculation. Schlossberg is entering the Democratic primary to fill the seat being vacated by long-time incumbent Rep. Jerry Nadler, whose retirement marks the end of an era for Manhattan politics.
The race for NY-12, a deep-blue district covering the media and financial hubs of Manhattan's Upper West Side and Midtown, is not for the faint of heart. In this solidly Democratic territory, the primary is the election, and it is already shaping up to be one of the most crowded and closely watched contests in the nation.
The "Celebrity" Candidate vs. The Political Machine
Schlossberg, a Harvard Law and Business School graduate, is not a traditional candidate. While his lineage connects him to the pinnacle of American politics, his modern fame comes from a different source: a savvy, sometimes eccentric, social media presence where he has cultivated a large following with his candid videos on politics, pop culture, and history.
His entry immediately injects an unprecedented level of national attention and celebrity glamour into a local race. However, he faces a formidable, and reportedly skeptical, political establishment.
The Democratic primary field is already packed with over a dozen experienced contenders, including heavyweight State Assemblyman Micah Lasher, a well-regarded political operative with deep ties to the district’s establishment.
"No Public Service Experience"
Schlossberg will also have to overcome direct criticism from the very man he seeks to replace. According to reports, the retiring Rep. Nadler has previously dismissed Schlossberg, sharply criticizing him for having "no real public service experience" and suggesting his candidacy is based more on profile than on policy.
This critique cuts to the heart of the central conflict in this race. Schlossberg's campaign will undoubtedly be a test of whether his Kennedy name and massive online platform can substitute for a traditional legislative resume.
Critics argue his candidacy is the latest example of political "star-ification," a trend where fame and media savvy are prioritized over proven leadership or a legislative track record. Supporters, however, see a charismatic new voice who can energize a new generation of voters, much like his grandfather did six decades ago.
As the primary battle heats up, the race for NY-12 will become a fascinating case study: In the heart of Manhattan, does the power of a political legend and a viral video star outweigh a lifetime of local political groundwork?
CaliToday.Net