Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders said Tuesday that he would not back New York Sen. Chuck Schumer for another term as Senate Democratic leader, making him the most prominent progressive so far to oppose Schumer’s candidacy. His announcement comes as Democrats prepare to take control of the Senate with at least 54 seats when the 120th Congress begins in January.
Speaking at a Capitol press conference on Nov. 10, Sanders described the previous week’s midterm elections as a demand for change. He said voters across Republican and Democratic states were struggling with food, healthcare and housing costs, while worrying that their children would have a lower standard of living. He contrasted those concerns with the fortunes of billionaires.
Sanders, an independent who caucuses with Democrats, said his decision did not reflect a lack of personal regard for Schumer. He noted that they had known each other for more than 30 years and praised Schumer’s work ethic. But he said the party needed new direction and called for an open debate that would demonstrate to voters that their ballots would lead to a different approach in Washington.
Michigan Democratic Sen. Elissa Slotkin, who appeared with Sanders, also pressed for changes in how the caucus operates. She said anyone seeking to lead Senate Democrats should explain how they would govern differently, what steps they would take during the first 100 days to improve Americans’ finances and how they would change their communication.
Slotkin said she was not actively pursuing the leadership position, but wanted a change in approach. She made clear that her support would depend on a candidate presenting a specific proposal. “Whoever wants my vote is going to have to show me a concrete plan that’s definitively different,” she said.
No challenger has formally emerged to contest Schumer’s leadership. Maryland Sen. Chris Van Hollen, however, has moved closest to a potential bid. After initially saying he would not seek the position, he is now exploring whether to run.
On Monday, Van Hollen argued that the leadership selection should not amount to a coronation and said he was listening without ruling out a candidacy. At an event Tuesday, he said he was actively contacting fellow senators, noting that the choice ultimately rests with members of the Democratic caucus. Democrats are expected to elect their leaders in early December.
