Bernie Sanders Opposes Schumer for Senate Leader as Democrats Open 2026 Power Fight
Updated
Updated · The Globe and Mail · Nov 11
Bernie Sanders Opposes Schumer for Senate Leader as Democrats Open 2026 Power Fight
3 articles · Updated · The Globe and Mail · Nov 11
Summary
Bernie Sanders said he will not back Chuck Schumer for Senate Democratic leader, turning the party’s post-midterm takeover into an immediate leadership battle.
Elissa Slotkin joined Sanders in calling for a new generation of leadership, while several incoming Democratic senators have signaled they could support an alternative candidate.
Chris Van Hollen has emerged as a possible challenger after progressives, including Sen.-elect Abdul El-Sayed, pressed for new leadership; Slotkin said she wants any contender to present a full governing plan.
Schumer, 75, has refused to step aside and said he is confident of winning, with DSCC chair Kirsten Gillibrand defending the leader who helped Democrats flip seats including Texas, Kansas and South Carolina.
Senate Democrats are only beginning leadership talks ahead of elections later this month, even as Republicans met Tuesday to choose their own leaders for the next Congress.