Schumer’s grip on power slips as Dems begin to revolt against him, eye new leadership

Chuck Schumer faces growing calls within the Senate Democratic caucus to discuss its leadership, complicating his bid for another term as minority leader. The debate matters because Democrats have recently regained the Senate majority, and their leader would help set the party’s direction and priorities.

Schumer says he expects to be re-elected and describes the caucus as united, but Sen. Richard Blumenthal called for “new energy and ideas” while predicting Schumer would keep the role absent another candidate. Some incoming senators have said they will not support Schumer, and Sen. Chris Van Hollen has called for a caucus-wide discussion; he is reportedly considering a challenge.