Ocasio-Cortez Dodges Question on Schumer’s Leadership Amid Democratic Departures

Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) sidestepped a question regarding whether Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) should step down following the defection of some Democratic senators who sided with Republicans to reopen the government.

When Schumer was asked Wednesday if he should resign from his position, Ocasio-Cortez provided a lengthy response but did not directly address the question.

As reported by Rachel Silke from the Washington Examiner, Ocasio-Cortez mentioned, “I think it’s important… to understand that leadership is a reflection of the party, and Senate Democrats elected leaders that represent them.”

She elaborated, saying, “So the question needs to be bigger than one person. There are several Senate primaries this cycle. I know you’re asking about New York. That was many years ago now. … In fact, we have a Senate election this year, and my hope is that people across this country will actually participate in the primaries and choose their leaders.”

This week, Schumer faced significant backlash from his Democratic colleagues after eight senators from the party voted alongside Republicans to advance a continuing resolution (CR) aimed at funding the government.

Senators Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), and Tim Kaine (D-VA) joined the ranks of other Democrats who had already supported the CR, which was initially passed by the House.

These eight Democrats ensured their colleagues wouldn’t secure extended coverage of Obamacare’s premium subsidies by accepting a commitment from Senate Minority Leader John Thune (R-SD) for a vote on the issue “no later than the second week of December.”

Before the government shutdown began on October 1, Senate Republican Conference Chairman Tom Cotton (R-AR) speaking exclusively to Breitbart News alleged that Schumer was attempting to force a shutdown due to concerns about a potential challenge from Ocasio-Cortez in the primaries.

Cotton remarked, “Chuck Schumer is shutting down the government in fear of AOC’s primary. His actions are disgraceful.”

After Sunday’s procedural vote, he characterized Schumer’s decision as “shameful,” claiming it prioritized his “extraordinary hatred of President Trump ahead of service to the nation.”