Political dynasties are already circling Jerry Nadler’s Manhattan congressional seat like vultures, threatening to turn a local election into another playground for America’s elite families while working-class constituents watch from the sidelines.
Dynasty Politics Return to Manhattan
Jerry Nadler’s September 1st retirement announcement after 34 years in Congress has unleashed speculation about which political royalty might claim his Manhattan seat. Chelsea Clinton and Jack Schlossberg, President Kennedy’s grandson, represent the type of inherited privilege that has dominated American politics for decades. Both possess famous last names but lack the grassroots connections that should matter most to Upper West Side voters seeking genuine representation.
Clinton and Kennedy heirs weigh in on running for Nadler’s New York seat https://t.co/IIsjpcj99R
— Fox News (@FoxNews) September 4, 2025
Assembly Members Micah Lasher and Alex Bores, along with NYC Council Member Erik Bottcher, have already begun positioning themselves as serious contenders. These local politicians understand the district’s needs firsthand, having worked within Manhattan’s political structure for years. Lasher, described as being “like a son to Jerry” Nadler, represents continuity with the retiring congressman’s progressive agenda without the baggage of dynastic expectations.
Elite Name Recognition Versus Local Experience
The potential entry of Clinton and Schlossberg highlights a troubling pattern in American politics where celebrity trumps competence. Clinton’s primary qualification appears to be her mother’s failed presidential campaigns and her father’s scandal-ridden presidency. Schlossberg’s juvenile social media presence has already drawn criticism from potential voters who question his mental maturity for serious governance. Neither candidate has demonstrated the deep community ties essential for effective congressional representation.
Manhattan’s 12th Congressional District covers the Upper West Side, a reliably Democratic stronghold where the primary election effectively determines the winner. This reality means voters have the power to reject dynastic politics in favor of candidates who have proven their commitment to local issues. The district deserves representatives who earned their positions through service, not inheritance.
Grassroots Resistance to Political Aristocracy
Early social media reactions reveal significant skepticism about dynasty candidates among potential voters. Comments criticizing both Clinton and Schlossberg’s qualifications suggest that Manhattan residents may reject the assumption that famous names automatically deserve their votes. This resistance reflects broader American frustration with political elites who view congressional seats as family heirlooms rather than positions requiring earned trust and demonstrated competence.
Clinton and Kennedy heirs weigh in on running for Nadler’s New York seat. I can’t believe that either one of them thinks they are qualified for the job. https://t.co/PEwtAoLkBB #FoxNews
— Space Cadet (@DogProtector23) September 4, 2025
The upcoming primary battle will test whether local Democratic voters prioritize substance over celebrity. Assembly Members Lasher and Bores have spent years building relationships with constituents and understanding Manhattan’s unique challenges. Their experience in state and local government provides practical preparation for federal legislative work that neither Clinton nor Schlossberg can match through family connections alone.
Sources:
Nadler retiring leaves highly anticipated void in Manhattan politics – City & State NY
Nadler retire 2026 Democrats NY – Axios