Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) is heading into a leadership vote next month with open rebellion from within his own ranks, as prominent Democrats—including Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT) and Sen. Elissa Slotkin (D-MI)—publicly oppose his bid for majority leader.
Speaking to reporters Tuesday following a closed-door meeting with Sanders and Slotkin, Schumer downplayed the dissent, claiming he would secure the position and that his party is “really united.” His confidence came just moments after Sanders and Slotkin told reporters they would not back him.
Key Democrats Break Ranks
“I like Chuck, nobody works harder than Chuck Schumer,” Sanders said. “But the time is now for change.” The Vermont independent—who caucuses with Democrats—called for an “open contest” and urged the party to embrace a “new and bold direction.”
Slotkin, a moderate Democrat from Michigan, stopped short of endorsing a challenger but said she would remain a “no” unless leadership shifts course. She even hinted at tactical resistance, suggesting colleagues should consider withholding quorum if Schumer runs unopposed.
Labor and Progressive Backlash
The opposition extends beyond sitting senators. The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers sent Schumer a letter urging him to step aside, while progressive activists protested outside his Manhattan office with signs reading, “We didn’t vote for status quo.”
At least five incoming senators—Peggy Flanagan (MN), Troy Jackson (ME), Abdul El-Sayed (MI), Juliana Stratton (IL), and Adam Hamilton (KS)—have all declared they won’t support Schumer. Hamilton, appearing on NBC’s Meet the Press, argued Kansas voters see the New York Democrat as a “divisive figure.”
No Clear Challenger Emerges
Despite mounting dissatisfaction, no challenger has officially stepped forward. Sen. Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), once seen as a potential alternative, ruled out a bid earlier this month, though sources say he’s now gauging colleagues’ sentiments. Meanwhile, Schumer’s ally Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) defended his record, crediting him with delivering the Democratic Senate majority.
The secret-ballot leadership election will include newly elected senators, with Schumer needing a simple majority in a caucus expected to hold 54-56 seats. If no alternative emerges by next month’s vote, progressives may face the choice of backing Schumer or leaving the position vacant—a scenario that would intensify the party’s internal rift.
Source: www.breitbart.com — https://www.breitbart.com/politics/2026/11/10/schumer-claims-unity-as-sanders-slotkin-5-senators-elect-oppose-him/