Calls for Leadership Change in Senate

WASHINGTON — California Congressman Ro Khanna raised concerns on Sunday about Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, suggesting that it may be time for a leadership change within the party.

Some Democratic lawmakers are expressing frustration with Schumer’s handling of the recent government shutdown, considering it a decisive point in evaluating his leadership. They argue it might be time to seek new leadership in the Senate, despite some criticisms regarding internal party conflicts.

In an appearance on NBC’s “Meet the Press,” Khanna stated, “Schumer doesn’t inspire confidence. He lacks boldness and keeps his distance from grassroots efforts. He presided over the lead-up to the Iraq war and has shown a lack of clear stance on issues like Gaza.” He also pointed out an instance where Schumer struggled to pronounce the name of New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani.

Khanna described Schumer’s performance regarding health care during the shutdown negotiations as weak. However, he did acknowledge Schumer’s past leadership successes during the Biden administration, including work on the CHIPS and Science Act, as well as the infrastructure bill and the Inflation Reduction Act.

As for the shutdown, Khanna criticized Schumer for failing to maintain party unity and for concluding the shutdown without fulfilling the concessions the party sought. Notably, Schumer did not support a bipartisan agreement to end the shutdown this time, reflecting a pattern that some progressives found disappointing.

When asked about emerging leaders within the party, Khanna mentioned figures like Chris Murphy, Cory Booker, and Brian Schatz, noting their potential. While no current senator has officially called for Schumer’s resignation, candidates from Maine and Iowa have indicated a favorable view toward a change.

Interestingly, a source who previously worked with Kamala Harris jokingly interrupted Khanna, saying, “You can’t spell newcomer without ‘Ro.’”

Meanwhile, Senator Tim Kaine, who was among those who helped open the government, defended Schumer’s effectiveness, directing critics like Khanna to focus on their own leadership instead of attacking established figures.

Former Obama chief of staff Rahm Emanuel, eyeing a potential presidential run in 2028, urged Democrats to put aside their infighting. He emphasized that Chuck Schumer isn’t the real issue; rather, the focus should remain on Republicans and their actions. He commented, “No one stands in a circle and fires a firing squad like the Democrats do,” and noted that historically, both parties that have instigated government shutdowns over policy disputes have faced repercussions.