Sanders, Feb. 2026 file: Anders Eidesvik / Wikimedia (CC BY-SA 4.0, cropped)
Sen. Bernie Sanders said Tuesday he will not support Chuck Schumer for another term as Senate Democratic leader, adding a prominent voice to calls for a change at the top of the caucus.
The Vermont independent, who caucuses with Democrats, praised Schumer’s work ethic but said the party needs different leadership. His remarks came at a news conference alongside Michigan Sen. Elissa Slotkin, who has also called for a new generation of leaders.
Neither Sanders nor Slotkin endorsed an alternative candidate. Slotkin said she was not actively seeking the job herself.
Maryland Sen. Chris Van Hollen said Tuesday he was listening to colleagues about a possible run, but he had not announced a challenge. No leadership election had taken place.
Democrats are expected to choose their leaders next month, following midterm gains that put them on course to control the Senate. Schumer is seeking another two-year term and would need a majority of the caucus to keep the job.
Schumer defended his leadership Tuesday, saying Democrats were united around lowering costs and other priorities. Some colleagues have backed him, citing the party’s election gains.
The disagreement remains a debate within the caucus, not a completed leadership change. A declared challenger would still need to build enough support to defeat Schumer.
JBizNews Desk | Washington
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