Sanders drops support for Schumer in Senate leadership race
The Vermont senator joins a growing group of Democrats demanding new leadership after the midterm elections, though no challenger has formally emerged yet.
By Alessia Desai ·
Bernie Sanders announced on Tuesday that he will not back Chuck Schumer for re-election as Senate majority leader. The 85-year-old independent, who caucuses with Democrats, told reporters on Capitol Hill that the time has come for a change in party leadership. He stated that while he has known Schumer for more than 30 years and admires his work ethic, he believes the party must move in a new direction.
Sanders cited the recent midterm election results as evidence that voters are demanding fresh leadership. He argued that the campaign focused on the need for the Democratic Party to adopt a bold new approach. His decision adds to a growing chorus of Democrats calling for a leadership shakeup following the party's recent electoral wins.
Senator Chris Van Hollen of Maryland expressed similar views at a post-election conference in Washington. Speaking at an event hosted by the progressive organization Groundwork Collaborative, Van Hollen questioned whether the Senate Democratic caucus is heeding the call for change. He noted that while he is not formally running for the position, he is reaching out to colleagues to gauge their support for a new leader. Van Hollen emphasized that the recent election should not be treated as a coronation for the current leadership.
Elissa Slotkin, a moderate senator from Michigan, also signaled support for a leadership transition. She stated that the American people voted for change on election night. Slotkin encouraged any interested Democrat to come forward with a concrete plan, while clarifying that she is not actively seeking the majority leadership role herself.
Several incoming senators have also voiced their preference for new leadership. This group includes Abdul El-Sayed of Michigan, who defeated a candidate backed by Schumer in the primary. Other senator-elects supporting the push include Adam Hamilton of Kansas, Annie Andrews of South Carolina, Chris Pappas of New Hampshire, Troy Jackson of Maine, and Peggy Flanagan of Minnesota. These new members have joined the calls for a more democratic process in selecting the party's head.
Schumer has served as the Senate Democratic leader since 2017. Despite the growing opposition, he remains confident in his chances of retaining the role. He told reporters last week that he would be re-elected as majority leader. On Tuesday, he reiterated this stance, stating that the caucus is united in its focus on lowering costs, ending corruption, and managing national priorities.
Sanders said he wants the party to elect a new leader through a process that includes vigorous debate. No Democrat has formally volunteered to challenge Schumer so far. The current leader plans to continue his bid, citing unity within the caucus as a key strength heading into the next legislative session.
