Chuck Schumer Says He Won’t Step Down as Senate Democratic Leader After Midterms

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer says he has no intention of stepping aside as the Democratic leader after November’s midterm elections, declaring that he will seek another term regardless of whether his party wins control of the Senate.

Schumer made his plans clear as senators left Washington for the final stretch of campaigning before the November election. Asked about his future as Democratic leader, the 75-year-old New York senator said he would run for the leadership position again after the election.

The declaration comes as Democrats attempt to regain control of the Senate after losing their majority in the 2024 elections. Republicans currently hold a 53-47 advantage, meaning Democrats would need a net gain of four seats to take control of the chamber.

Schumer has projected confidence about his party’s chances, arguing that Democrats have gained momentum heading into the final weeks of the campaign. At the same time, he acknowledged that control of the Senate remains highly uncertain and described the contest as essentially even.

The Democratic leader also raised the possibility of Republicans attempting to “steal the election,” identifying election-related concerns as one of two factors he believes could prevent Democrats from winning the Senate.

Schumer said the other major obstacle is money, pointing to the financial advantage held by Republicans and conservative political groups. He argued that Democrats need enough resources to respond to Republican advertising and attacks during the final weeks before voters head to the polls.

Republicans have rejected Democratic claims that they are attempting to undermine the election. GOP leaders have instead focused on voter identification requirements, election security measures and other changes they argue would strengthen confidence in the voting process.

Schumer has faced criticism from within his own party over his leadership, particularly from progressive Democrats unhappy with several of his decisions during the current Congress. Some Democratic Senate candidates have also declined to support him for another term as leader.

Despite those divisions, Schumer maintains that Senate Democrats remain unified heading into the election. He has indicated that he believes the party’s candidates and the current political environment have put Democrats within reach of reclaiming the majority.

Schumer has led Senate Democrats since 2017, succeeding the late Nevada Sen. Harry Reid. If Democratic senators select him again following the midterms, he would continue leading the caucus whether Democrats regain the majority or remain in the minority.