Durbin Exit Puts Bank Lobby on ‘High Alert’ for Credit Card Push

A top legislative priority of Sen. Dick Durbin has fueled a big-dollar lobbying fight between banks and retailers that is poised to intensify during the Illinois Democrat’s final 20 months in office.

Lobbyists on both sides of the battle say they are gearing up for a multimillion-dollar blitz over legislation that would limit credit card transaction fees, as Durbin eyes a big-ticket policy swan song. Durbin, the party’s No. 2 leader, said this week he would not seek re-election next year but would serve out his term.

For his last big fight, Durbin will likely draw on the K Street ...