Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., says he won’t support Sen. Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., for another term as Senate Democratic leader when Democrats take control of the chamber next year.
Sanders spoke warmly of Schumer at a news conference Tuesday, calling him a hard worker and noting they have known each other for more than 30 years. Still, he said the party needs new leadership.
Sen. Elissa Slotkin, D-Mich., also said she would not back Schumer. Neither she nor Sanders has endorsed someone to replace him. Slotkin said she wasn’t pursuing the leadership role herself, but argued that Democrats need a new generation of leaders and should show they have listened to voters.
The two senators are among several newer members of the Senate Democratic caucus who oppose Schumer’s re-election, including Sens.-elect Adam Hamilton and Troy Jackson. Some on the party’s left have voiced support for Sen. Chris Van Hollen, D-Md.
Van Hollen has called for a discussion within the Democratic caucus about how the party will use its new responsibilities and powers, saying no one should be given automatic support before members agree on a direction. He has previously said he was considering a possible run for higher office in 2028, and has reportedly also weighed a bid to replace Schumer as leader.
