Why US Democrats are expected to keep Schumer and Jeffries in power

After Democrats’ strong midterm gains put them on course to control both chambers of Congress in January, Chuck Schumer and Hakeem Jeffries are expected to retain their leadership roles. Their likely re-election has exposed divisions between Democrats who favour continuity and those who see the victories as a chance to change the party’s priorities.

Schumer’s supporters credit his candidate recruitment and fundraising with helping win at least eight Republican-held Senate seats, potentially giving Democrats as many as 56 seats. They argue the scale of the gains makes it difficult to challenge him, and Schumer says he has enough support; however, Senator Chris Van Hollen has announced a bid for the Senate leadership, following calls from progressives for a change. Jeffries is seeking the House speakership.