Do the Dems need new leadership?

Sen Chris Van Hollen is challenging Chuck Schumer to lead Senate Democrats, arguing that the party needs new leadership and a more forceful agenda after its historic midterm win. The contest reflects wider frustration among some Democrats that their leaders may not match an energised, angry voter base ahead of a likely combative final two years of the Trump administration.

Van Hollen has the backing of newly elected senators Abdul El-Sayed and Peggy Flanagan, but Schumer says he expects to win the closed-door leadership vote scheduled for December. Schumer, 75, has led Senate Democrats since 2017. House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries has no challenger, though some Democrats also question his approach; the debate could foreshadow a bigger leadership contest in 2028, when Democrats may retain their majorities and could also win the presidency.