Schumer refuses to resign despite backlash from progressives over his vote to advance a Republican-backed spending bill that prevented a government shutdown.
Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer faced calls for his resignation after voting in favor of a Republican spending bill that avoided a government shutdown, despite significant opposition within his party. Schumer defended his decision as a matter of principle, saying it was the right move to protect the country and his party, even though it sparked controversy among Democrats and progressive activists. The vote allowed the government to continue operating but granted President Trump significant discretion over spending, leading to protests at Schumer's office and calls for him to face a primary challenge, potentially from Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. While some progressives, including Sen. Bernie Sanders and Rep. Ro Khanna, expressed anger over the vote, Schumer maintained it was a necessary action to prevent far worse consequences. Schumer is not up for re-election until 2028, and while his decision has stirred division, he believes his leadership was required to avert a greater crisis.