Politics · 263 posts/h
After Democrats clinched 55 Senate seats in the 2026 midterms, flipping key Republican holds, Maryland Senator Chris Van Hollen announced he'll challenge Chuck Schumer for majority leader. He called the victory a people-powered movement demanding fresh leadership to tackle economic issues and corruption, pledging to end the filibuster for priorities like Medicare for All. Schumer welcomed the discussion, touting his role in the win and his support among Democrats, while progressives like Minnesota Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan rallied behind Van Hollen. The secret-ballot vote comes in early December, pitting experience against calls for bolder change.
Senator Chris Van Hollen@ChrisVanHollen
In this election, Americans called on us to unrig an economy rigged against working people & fueled by political corruption. To deliver, we need new leadership. This isn't about any one person – it’s about answering that call. That's why I’m running for Senate Majority Leader.
Chuck Schumer@SenSchumer
I welcome any discussion about the future of our caucus and the important work ahead. I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished together—55 seats and counting is an amazing result—and I have the votes to continue serving as Democratic Leader. I look forward to leading our new…
Bernie Sanders@BernieSanders
The American people voted for change. They want a Democratic Party that will stand up to powerful special interests, take on the billionaire class and fight for working families. That is why I am supporting Senator Chris Van Hollen to lead Senate Democrats.