Jack Schlossberg, an American political commentator and the grandson of former President John F. Kennedy, has announced his candidacy for New York’s 12th Congressional District. Schlossberg aims to bring a platform centered on service, courage, independence, and unity to the political arena, emphasizing the importance of these values in his approach to representation.
In a recent interview with The Ticker, he elaborated on how these principles influence his perspectives on leadership, public safety, democratic governance, and the need to represent a district characterized by its political and cultural diversity.
Schlossberg shared his thoughts on the recent modifications made to the White House Rose Garden during the Trump administration, asserting that public spaces should preserve historical integrity rather than erase it. He noted, “I don’t think all changes are bad,” referencing his grandmother’s contributions to the White House while emphasizing that her intentions were grounded in historical scholarship rather than political propaganda. He warned against the manipulation of national landmarks for political messaging, labeling it as an unprecedented phenomenon that could pose dangers by distorting historical narratives.
A significant focus of Schlossberg’s campaign will be combatting antisemitism, which he described as a growing concern both nationally and within NY-12, a district historically recognized as a safe haven for the Jewish community. He detailed his proactive approach, which includes the “Jack-Fast-Track” plan aimed at increasing funding for the federal Nonprofit Security Grant Program and enhancing safety measures for places of worship.
Drawing upon his family’s rich Jewish heritage, Schlossberg expressed a personal commitment to the Jewish community. He shared that his grandfather had once served as president of Park East Synagogue, highlighting the influence of his upbringing in shaping his dedication to combating antisemitism.
At the 2025 John F. Kennedy Profile in Courage Award Ceremony, Schlossberg presented an award to former Vice President Mike Pence, underlining the importance of bipartisanship. Despite their political differences, he characterized the evening’s theme of patriotism as transcending partisanship, a message he intends to carry into his campaign and represent in NY-12, which he sees as a critical incubator for national leadership in progressive movements.
In celebrating New York City’s cultural contributions, Schlossberg reflected on the unique role of its museums and the arts in inspiring civic engagement. He expressed his passion for music and dance, lauding Frank Sinatra’s “Theme From New York, New York” as a powerful anthem for the city and praising ballet as both an art form and a medium of political resistance that resonates with him personally.
Reiterating the need to restore faith in democratic institutions, Schlossberg positioned his campaign as a call for collective action and belief in America’s potential. He emphasized the importance of unity as the nation approaches its 250th anniversary, reinforcing the idea that progress is achieved when individuals work together.
Through his campaign, Schlossberg not only aims to represent a diverse constituency but also seeks to inspire a renewed trust in the democratic process, inviting constituents to partake in shaping a hopeful future for New York’s 12th District.