Democrats Express Frustration Over Senate Vote

In Washington, frustration among Democrats and progressives boiled over Sunday night as the Senate made significant headway toward reopening the government. Many called for the dismissal of Minority Leader Chuck Schumer.

Schumer (D-N.Y.), who opposed the bipartisan package aimed at ending what has become the longest federal shutdown in U.S. history, faced backlash for not preventing five Democratic votes that allowed the bill to progress. Critics pointed out that the Republicans offered no compromises regarding the impending expiration of Obamacare subsidies.

Representative Ro Khanna from California criticized Schumer, declaring, “Senator Schumer is no longer powerless and should be removed.” He further questioned, “If you can’t lead the fight against rising healthcare costs, what exactly will you fight for?”

Representative Seth Moulton (D-Mass.) echoed this sentiment, stating, “Tonight is another example of why we need new leadership.” Moulton, who recently initiated a primary challenge against Senator Ed Markey, added that if Schumer were a capable leader, he would have united his party to oppose the legislation. “Maybe @EdMarkey will finally join me in vowing not to support Schumer as conference leader after the 2026 elections?”

Several Democratic senators, including Dick Durbin (IL), Tim Kaine (VA), Maggie Hassan and Jeanne Shaheen (NH), along with Jacky Rosen (NV), voted to move forward with the deal, which had the main terms outlined by Republicans weeks in advance.

Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) offered to put a vote on expanding Obamacare subsidies on the table in exchange for support to advance the plan, although there was no guarantee of passage. Meanwhile, House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) has not committed to bringing the bill forward in the House.