Division among US Democrats over Schumer’s leadership role

Chuck Schumer says he expects to be re-elected as the US Senate’s Democratic majority leader after the party’s strong midterm gains, but support for him is uncertain. At least seven incoming Democratic senators have declined to commit to backing him, amid calls from voters and party groups for new leadership.

Critics question Schumer’s appeal to working-class voters and his record on Israel, Trump’s cabinet confirmations and last year’s government shutdown. Some want a more ambitious agenda; Schumer says Democrats will investigate the Trump administration, challenge its policies and end the war in Iran. Progressive group Indivisible is urging senators to hold a contested leadership election, and Schumer’s office has not yet responded to questions about the concerns.