Senator Richard Durbin, Democratic from Illinois

Richard Durbin

Senator · Illinois · Democrat

Richard Durbin

Biography
Richard Durbin began his career as a congressional aide and attorney, grounding his public service in practical problem-solving. Elected as U.S. Senator for Illinois in 1996, Durbin has prioritized immigration reform, access to health care, and consumer protection. He co-authored the DREAM Act, championing a pathway to citizenship for undocumented youth, and serves as Senate Majority Whip, shaping legislative strategy on key issues. Durbin’s leadership is marked by bipartisan collaboration and a commitment to representing the diverse needs of Illinois families.
Education
  • J.D., Georgetown University Law Center
    1969
  • B.S. in Foreign Service and Economics, Georgetown University, Washington, DC
    1966
Professional History

  • U.S. Senator

    1997–Present

    Senator from Illinois. 5 terms.

  • U.S. Representative

    1983–1997

    Represented Illinois's 20th congressional district for 7 terms.

  • Legal Counsel, Illinois Senate Judiciary Committee

    1972–82

  • Attorney (illinois Bar 1969)

    1969

  • Legal Counsel, Lieutenant governor Paul Simon

    1969–72

  • Parliamentarian, Illinois Senate

    1969–82

  • Adjunct Professor, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine

Policy Focus
Crime and Law Enforcement11%
Health8%
Education6%
International Affairs6%
Notable Legislation

Key legislative actions from Richard Durbin's record in Congress.

  • Dream Act Advocacy

    Authored and repeatedly introduced the DREAM Act to provide a pathway to citizenship for undocumented immigrants brought to the U.S. as children.

  • Tobacco Regulation

    Led efforts to grant the FDA authority to regulate tobacco products through the Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act.

  • Student Loan Reform

    Championed the Federal Direct Loan Program, shifting student loans from private banks to direct federal lending to save taxpayer money.

  • Criminal Justice Reform

    Co-authored the Fair Sentencing Act, reducing sentencing disparities between crack and powder cocaine offenses.

Committee Assignments
View details →
  • Senate Committee on the JudiciaryRanking Member
  • Senate Committee on Appropriations
  • Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry

Sen. Richard Durbin FAQ

Reach Illinois Lawmakers

Senator Durbin focuses on Crime and Law Enforcement, Health and Education. Deliver personalized constituent letters to Illinois's federal, state, and local officials — live in under five minutes.

Grassroots advocacy & legislator intelligence. Used by nonprofits, associations, and GR firms nationwide.

Start a Campaign