Why US Democrats are expected to keep Schumer and Jeffries in power
Despite internal divisions, US Democrats are likely to keep Chuck Schumer and Hakeem Jeffries in charge after their midterm victories that gave the party control of Congress.
Over a week after Democrats regained control of the United States Congress, internal divisions threaten to undermine the party's political momentum. Despite growing calls for leadership changes, Chuck Schumer and Hakeem Jeffries appear likely to remain at the helm of their respective Senate and House caucuses.
The two New Yorkers are seeking to retain their positions as Democrats prepare to take control of both chambers in January. Schumer, 75, is vying to lead Democrats' new Senate majority, a post he previously held during Joe Biden's presidency. Jeffries, 56, is seeking the House speakership, which would place him second in the presidential line of succession.
Election Victory Buys Goodwill
The party's massive electoral gains provide the strongest argument for keeping Schumer and Jeffries in power. Schumer's supporters credit him with helping Democrats secure at least eight Republican-held Senate seats, potentially giving the party as many as 56 seats in the next Congress—a majority not seen since Barack Obama's first term.
Schumer Faces Challenge
Not all Democrats believe the victories are enough to guarantee Schumer's leadership. Senator Chris Van Hollen announced he would challenge for the role after progressives called for new leadership. Van Hollen's bid may be aimed at extracting concessions rather than outright victory, with some suggesting he could serve as a 'bridge' to new leadership.
Senator Bernie Sanders has criticized Schumer's alignment with Democratic voters, while Michigan Senator Elissa Slotkin has called for a concrete plan on how Democrats will use their newfound power. Despite public dissatisfaction, Schumer needs only a simple majority of the Democratic caucus to retain his position.
Jeffries' Path Clearer
Unlike Schumer, Jeffries does not face a prominent challenger for the speakership, despite criticism from progressives over his approach to Trump and support for Israel. The New Democrat Coalition, representing 142 current and newly elected lawmakers, has endorsed his bid.
Progressives like Pramila Jayapal are withholding support unless Jeffries commits to advancing Medicare for All, while Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez noted the lack of an alternative candidate makes challenging him difficult. Jeffries appears set to become the first Black speaker when the new Congress convenes on January 3, 2027.
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