Casten Statement on Senator Durbin’s Retirement

April 23, 2025 Casten Statement on Senator Durbin’s Retirement Downers Grove, Illinois — U.S. Congressman Sean Casten (IL-06) released the following statement regarding Senator Dick Durbin’s announcement that he will not seek re-election: “Senator Dick Durbin’s career of public service is a gold standard for anyone who holds or aspires to hold public office. He has been a model and a mentor. A model in his actions, where he has always led with intellect and humility. And a mentor to all of us learning how to do the job he has done so well. “When I was first running in 2018, he told me that I should never judge how politicians behave if they don’t have any political capital to spend – but that I could learn a lot about politicians by how they choose to spend the political capital they have. It’s always struck me as quintessentially Durbin. Humble, in its insistence that we not rush to judgment. But insightful for understanding how others will – and should – judge us. It’s the kind of advice that makes you better at your job, just as it pushes you to be better still. May we all live up to that standard. “The Congress, Illinois, and the country are a better place because of his service. Thank you, Senator Durbin.” ### Print Email Share Tweet