Even though the longest government shutdown in U.S. history has come to a close, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer is facing criticism from various media sources regarding his handling of the situation.
From late-night hosts to former White House staff, many voices have weighed in. Notably, after eight senators from the Democratic caucus defied party leadership, it quickly became clear that the shutdown was nearing its end.
Throughout the shutdown, Schumer and his team insisted they would only agree to reopen the government if they secured a firm deal on the continuation of Obamacare subsidies.
Yet, the proposed agreement never came to fruition. Instead, eight senators went with an offer from Senate Majority Leader John Thune, which had been on the table since the beginning, promising a vote on legislation related to the subsidies.
After the vote to reopen the government, media reactions were quite strong, especially toward Schumer.
David Axelrod
David Axelrod, who served as an adviser to President Obama, commented during a CNN panel that Schumer might be facing bigger issues within his party now that the shutdown is over.
When CNN host Anderson Cooper asked if Schumer could face repercussions from the Democratic Party’s left wing for voting alongside Republicans, Axelrod suggested that Schumer’s future as party leader appeared uncertain. He said, “He won’t become party leader in 2027 after this election unless something remarkable happens.”
Jen Psaki
On her MSNBC show, Jen Psaki also expressed her bewilderment at Schumer’s actions after his caucus accepted the deal from Thune. She shared a video of Schumer from earlier in the shutdown, where he labeled the Republicans’ actions as “outrageous” and potentially life-threatening for millions.
Psaki remarked on the stark contrast between that intense Schumer and the current situation, suggesting voters largely blamed the Republicans for the shutdown, which might have influenced how Democrats could have approached the negotiation.
Seth Meyers
Late-night host Seth Meyers was highly critical of the Democrats, questioning their decision to yield to President Trump at a critical juncture. He pointed out that polls indicated voters were aligned with the Democrats and expressed disbelief that they would surrender, stating, “But that’s what you’re doing. Giving up the fight.”
Jimmy Kimmel
Similarly, Jimmy Kimmel chimed in, likening Schumer’s behavior to a parent who gives in to their kids’ demands inconsistently. Kimmel criticized the Democrats’ approach, calling it a significant step back in their fight against Republican pressures.
Sunny Hostin
Sunny Hostin of “The View” was even more blunt, declaring Schumer’s time as the leader was over. She emphasized that Democrats needed to stand firm against the Trump administration rather than caving in. Hostin lamented that Democrats had failed those who had placed their faith in them and insisted it was time for new leadership.
Fox News Digital has attempted to reach Schumer’s office for a response.
