This week’s Economist/YouGov poll reveals that a significant number of Americans are unhappy with how Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) is performing in Congress.
Respondents were questioned about their viewpoints on Schumer’s job as U.S. Senate Minority Leader. Results show that 52% of those surveyed disapprove of his performance, whereas only 23% express approval.
A clear majority of Republicans and independents disapprove as well, with 64% of Republicans and 54% of independents voicing their discontent. Interestingly, support among independents is just 16% and 13% among Republicans.
Even Democrats seem divided. Schumer might not feel entirely supported by his party; only 43% of Democrats approve of his performance, against 35% who disapprove, and 22% remain undecided.
Among Congressional leaders, Schumer faces the highest disapproval ratings. This includes notable figures like Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD), House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA), and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, who also see considerable disapproval from the public.
The survey, conducted from October 24th to 27th, 2025, included 1,623 participants with a margin of error of +/-3.4%.
This data comes as Schumer’s Senate Democrats have been reluctant to reopen the government. House Speaker Johnson has accused Schumer of delaying out of fear of criticism from the progressive faction of his party.
Johnson noted that Schumer previously supported a Clean Continuance Resolution (CR) in March and had vocally opposed causing harm to the American populace at that time.
He remarked, “When he did the right thing in March, he was hit hard by the far left and faced potential consequences for his position. It was that serious,” referring to Schumer’s worries about his job and upcoming election.
Johnson expressed the belief that Schumer then devised a political strategy, prioritizing his own interests over those of the American people, saying, “He will fight to protect his career, even if it means opposing beneficial funding measures.”
He stated that the Democrats’ actions reflect a desire to appease their more radical members, emphasizing, “Democratic leaders in the Senate and House have chosen their political survival over what is best for the country.”
