In the lead-up to the 2026 midterm elections, a notable trend is emerging across the United States: children and relatives of prominent politicians are launching campaigns to continue their families’ legacies in public office. As many longtime members of Congress approach retirement, their offspring are stepping into the spotlight, blending familiar names with fresh ambitions. This surge of political “scions” highlights both the advantages of name recognition and the challenges of accusations of nepotism in an era when voters often demand change.
One of the most striking examples is in Maine’s gubernatorial race, where three candidates with deep political ties are competing. Democrat Angus King III, son of independent U.S. Senator Angus King (a former Maine governor himself), is running to succeed term-limited Democratic Governor Janet Mills. Fellow Democrat Hannah Pingree, daughter of U.S. Representative Chellie Pingree and a former speaker of the Maine House of Representatives, has also entered the race. On the Republican side, Jonathan Bush—nephew of former President George H.W. Bush and cousin of former President George W. Bush—is campaigning as a business-oriented “disruptor” focused on economic growth.
This Maine contest exemplifies how family connections can dominate open races. Chellie Pingree described watching her daughter run as both “heart-warming and terrifying,” calling it “natural” for the next generation to enter politics as parents near retirement. She emphasized that Hannah made the decision independently, drawing on her own legislative experience.
Similar patterns are appearing nationwide. In New Hampshire, Stefany Shaheen, daughter of retiring Democratic Senator Jeanne Shaheen, is seeking an open U.S. House seat. Stefany has highlighted her independence, even publicly opposing a bipartisan government shutdown deal her mother helped negotiate, to underscore her own policy priorities, particularly in health care.
In California, Christine Pelosi, daughter of former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (who announced her retirement from Congress), is running for a state Senate seat rather than her mother’s congressional district. Christine has positioned her campaign around advocacy for women’s rights, consumer protections, and vulnerable communities, aiming to carve her own path in Sacramento.
Other notable races include Jack Schlossberg, grandson of President John F. Kennedy, competing for a New York House seat and drawing significant media attention as part of America’s most famous political dynasty. In Georgia, Jim Kingston is vying for his father, former Republican Representative Jack Kingston’s, old House seat. Even closer family ties are evident elsewhere: Republican Representative Troy Nehls of Texas endorsed his identical twin brother for his seat, while in Illinois, brothers Jonathan and Jesse Jackson Jr. could potentially serve together in Congress.
Candidates from political families enjoy clear benefits, such as instant name recognition, established donor networks, and built-in voter trust. As Republican strategist Doug Heye noted, these heirs start with “high name ID” and advantageous fundraising connections, making them “known commodities” in a risky political landscape.
However, drawbacks abound. In a time of anti-establishment sentiment—evidenced by polls showing widespread desire to replace incumbents—these candidates face accusations of nepotism and must prove they offer more than just a famous last name. Angus King III compared his situation to playing hockey as Wayne Gretzky’s son: “You still have to skate.” He stressed the value of his father’s example of integrity and bipartisanship, while insisting no real advantage comes from the family name alone.
Many of these rising politicians emphasize independence. Stefany Shaheen coordinated with her mother on differing positions but stood firm on her beliefs. Christine Pelosi chose a different office to “make her own path.” Rep. Adelita Grijalva of Arizona, who recently succeeded her late father in Congress, acknowledged the high expectations placed on political children but defended the democratic process against nepotism claims.
Even in families with past controversies, like the Jacksons in Illinois—where Jesse Jackson Jr. served prison time for misusing campaign funds—support for redemption persists. His brother Jonathan expressed belief in “second chances.”
As the 2026 elections approach, this wave of familial candidates tests whether America’s political dynasties can endure in a polarized environment hungry for both familiarity and renewal. While not a new phenomenon, the concentration in this cycle underscores the enduring pull of legacy in U.S. politics. Voters will ultimately decide if these next-generation leaders represent continuity or a fresh start.
