Sen. Brian Schatz, a longtime climate action advocate, said Monday that he would seek the Democratic whip position when it opens up in 2027.
The Hawaii Democrat is an early favorite to succeed current whip Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), who last week announced his plans to retire at the close of his term. Schatz currently serves as deputy Democratic whip and is a senior appropriator.
Schatz, the chief deputy whip, officially announced his intention to run Monday, jumping in early for a position that will not be vacant for over 18 months. Other names floated for the role have been Sens. Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota and Patty Murray of Washington.
“I’m just initiating conversations, and I certainly believe it is within every senator’s right to take their time,” Schatz told reporters Monday.
