Sen. Chris Van Hollen, D-Md., announced he is challenging Sen. Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., for the role of Senate majority leader.
“In this election, Americans called on us to unrig an economy rigged against working people & fueled by political corruption,” Van Hollen wrote on X. “To deliver, we need new leadership. This isn’t about any one person – it’s about answering that call. That’s why I’m running for Senate Majority Leader.”
In response, Schumer said he welcomes discussion about the future of the caucus, noting the party will hold at least 55 seats next term.
“I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished together—55 seats and counting is an amazing result—and I have the votes to continue serving as Democratic Leader,” he said. “I look forward to leading our new Democratic majority and delivering for the American people.”
Schumer served as majority leader from 2021 to 2025 and as minority leader from 2025 to 2026.
Sens. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., and Elissa Slotkin, D-Mich., said at a news conference on Tuesday that they would not support Schumer.
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Some incoming senators followed suit, including Sens.-elect Adam Hamilton, D-Kan., Annie Andrews, D-S.C., Abdul El-Sayed, D-Mich., and Troy Jackson, D-Maine.
“The American public spoke clearly last week. They rejected Trumpism. But we have yet to earn our mandate. That will require bold leadership,” El Sayed wrote on X. “I called on Sen. Chris Van Hollen to lead our caucus as a candidate back in April because he leads with courage and experience. We need both right now. Which is why I’m proud to stand with him in his bid to lead our Senate majority.”
Van Hollen made news in April 2025 when he traveled to El Salvador to meet with an MS-13 gang member, Kilmar Abrego Garcia, who was deported by the Trump administration.
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