Van Hollen challenges Schumer for Senate leadership amid post-midterm shakeup
The Maryland senator filed his candidacy on Thursday, joining a growing list of Democrats who want new direction after the party's recent electoral gains.
By Samuel Hayes ·
Sen. Chris Van Hollen of Maryland announced on Thursday that he will run for Senate majority leader against incumbent Chuck Schumer. The move forces a contest over the party's top legislative post just days after the midterm elections concluded.
Van Hollen, 67, argued that voters demanded a break from the status quo. "It's now on us to meet this moment, and to do that we need new leadership," he stated. "This is not about any one person. It is about answering the call of the American people."
The Maryland Democrat first entered the Senate in 2016 after serving a decade in the House. He recently drew national attention for his role in securing the release of Kilmar Abrego Garcia, who had been wrongfully deported to El Salvador.
Schumer, 75, has held the leadership position since 2017. He faces criticism from progressive activists and lawmakers for his handling of the government funding dispute with President Trump in early 2025. In a social media post, Schumer defended his record, citing the party's recent gain of 55 seats. "I have the votes to continue serving as Democratic Leader," he wrote. "I look forward to leading our new Democratic majority."
Resistance within the caucus has grown. Sen. Bernie Sanders of Vermont said this week that he would oppose Schumer. He made the comment alongside Sen. Elissa Slotkin of Michigan, who said she is "seeking change" without formally declaring her opposition. Incoming members Peggy Flanagan of Minnesota and Abdul El-Sayed of Michigan have also voiced support for a new leader. El-Sayed told NPR this week that he worries the party may not earn its mandate if it simply repeats past strategies.
Support for the New York senator remains strong. Sens. Ruben Gallego of Arizona, Kirsten Gillibrand of New York, and Angela Alsobrooks of Maryland have publicly backed Schumer. The caucus will hold a secret ballot vote in early December to select the next majority leader. The winner will preside over a majority of 55 seats, a number that could rise to 56 if Democrats win the final pending race in Alaska.
