Seven incoming Democrats oppose Schumer

Seven incoming Democratic senators have indicated they will not back Chuck Schumer for the majority leader post. The New York politician told reporters on Wednesday that he expects to retain the role despite the opposition.

Illinois senator-elect Juliana Stratton confirmed through a spokesperson that she will not support the 75-year-old veteran. Kansas senator-elect Adam Hamilton stated in a September interview that he is not supporting Schumer. Maine senator-elect Troy Jackson said on Monday that he will support a different candidate.

The list of dissenters includes Michigan senator-elect Abdul El-Sayed, who backs Maryland senator Chris Van Hollen. Minnesota senator-elect Peggy Flanagan told reporters on Wednesday that it is time for new leadership. New Hampshire senator-elect Chris Pappas said last week that voters want a new generation of leadership. Texas senator-elect James Talarico has called for new blood in Washington.

The critics cite specific grievances regarding the party’s direction. Jackson has questioned Schumer’s ability to connect with working-class voters. Flanagan’s staff said they want a progressive champion to guide the party through the final two years of the Trump administration. El-Sayed may be reluctant to support Schumer after the leader backed El-Sayed’s primary opponent, Haley Stevens.

Schumer has faced prior criticism for his handling of Trump cabinet nominees and the government shutdown last year. California governor Gavin Newsom called Schumer’s support for a Republican bill to reopen agencies a capitulation. Michigan congresswoman Rashida Tlaib said Schumer should have stepped down over that move.

Schumer said the party’s new plan involves investigating the Trump administration and ending the war in Iran. The progressive group Indivisible released a memo on Thursday urging voters to demand a contested leadership election. The group stated that any Democrat unwilling to fight for action is not qualified to lead.

Schumer needs a simple majority of the projected 54 to 56 member Democratic caucus to stay in power. New Jersey senator Cory Booker told ABC on Wednesday that the party achieved one of its most historic sweeps. Schumer said Tuesday’s elections were not about him but about the American people.