Van Hollen launches challenge to Schumer for Senate Democratic leader
Sanders and Michigan Sen.-elect Abdul El-Sayed back Van Hollen, while Schumer says he has the votes to keep the post.
Maryland Sen. Chris Van Hollen announced he will challenge Chuck Schumer for the top Democratic role in the Senate, which would also make him majority leader if Democrats hold the post after taking control of the chamber. Van Hollen said voters called for change from Donald Trump's policies and from the status quo.
Van Hollen, 67, has served in Congress for 23 years, starting in the House before moving to the Senate in 2017. Schumer, 75, has been an elected official since 1981. Sen. Bernie Sanders said he would back Van Hollen and would not support Schumer, and Sen.-elect Abdul El-Sayed also endorsed Van Hollen.
Schumer said he welcomed the discussion and that he has the votes to keep serving as Democratic leader. He pointed to 55 seats held by Democrats as a strong result. Republicans criticized the fight, with the Republican National Committee calling it a sign of infighting among Democrats.
Key points
- Van Hollen announced he will challenge Schumer for Senate Democratic leader.
- Sanders and Sen.-elect Abdul El-Sayed back Van Hollen.
- Schumer says he has the votes to keep the job.
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Summarized with AI from the sources above and reviewed before publishing.
