Hollen Challenges Schumer for Senate Leadership After Democratic Election Sweep
Van Hollen enters leadership race
Sen. Chris Van Hollen, D-Md., has launched a bid to lead Senate Democrats, challenging longtime party figure Sen. Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y. Schumer currently serves as Senate minority leader and is seeking another term as the caucus’s top Democrat.
Van Hollen said the party needs new leadership to meet the moment. He described his campaign as a response to the American people, rather than a contest about one individual.
Criticism of Schumer’s priorities
Van Hollen has long occupied a more progressive position than Schumer in the Senate. Earlier this week, he criticized Schumer for choosing the crypto industry and the American Israel Public Affairs Committee over progressive candidates who won during the midterm cycle.
The challenge comes as some newly elected Democratic senators have suggested they may not support Schumer. The leadership contest is unfolding as Congress prepares to return to session.
Support from senator-elect
Senator-elect Abdul El-Sayed urged Van Hollen to run and said he was proud to support the Maryland senator. El-Sayed argued that voters had rejected Trumpism, but that Democrats still needed bold leadership to earn a mandate.
Van Hollen, 67, has served in Congress for 23 years, first in the House and then in the Senate beginning in 2017. Schumer, 75, has held elected office since 1981.
Key points
- Chris Van Hollen is challenging Chuck Schumer to lead Senate Democrats.
- Van Hollen says the party needs new leadership.
- He accused Schumer of favoring the crypto industry and AIPAC over progressive candidates.
- Senator-elect Abdul El-Sayed has endorsed Van Hollen’s bid.