Van Hollen says he’s gaining ground on Chuck Schumer for Senate leader

Van Hollen challenges Schumer’s count

Van Hollen, a Maryland Democrat, said Sunday he believes he can defeat Schumer, a New York Democrat, for the majority leader role. “I have a path to get there. No doubt about it,” Van Hollen told CNN’s “State of the Union.”

He disputed the list of committed votes shared publicly by Schumer’s team. Van Hollen said some people on the list had committed to vote for him, while others were open to change.

Schumer says he has support

Schumer has given a different account, saying he has secured enough votes to remain Democratic leader and lead the chamber when Democrats take control in January. The two senators’ claims about support are at odds.

Polls recently found that more than 50% of registered voters viewed Schumer negatively. Senate Democrats are scheduled to hold their leadership elections on Dec. 1.

Supporters and campaign launch

Van Hollen has public support from Sens.-elect Abdul El-Sayed of Michigan and Peggy Flanagan of Minnesota, as well as Sen. Bernie Sanders of Vermont, an independent who caucuses with Democrats. Sen. Elissa Slotkin of Michigan has said Democrats need new leadership but has not endorsed a candidate. Van Hollen announced his bid last week on MS NOW’s “The Briefing with Jen Psaki.” On Sunday, he launched a website with a petition and released an ad saying Democrats must earn the public’s trust.