The progressive grassroots organization MoveOn is calling for Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer to resign from his influential position. This demand arises after a group of moderate Democrats joined forces with Republicans to push for an end to the government shutdown, a move that has ignited frustration and concern among the Democratic base.
This fallout, first reported by Axios, represents a significant moment in the ongoing struggle within the Democratic Party. Schumer's popularity among the party's progressive base appears to be waning. Earlier this year, MoveOn and other liberal organizations collaborated closely with Schumer and his aides to develop strategies to navigate potential government shutdowns. However, the recent decision by eight members of the Senate Democratic caucus to compromise has drawn ire from lawmakers and activists alike, especially following a strong performance by Democrats in last Tuesday's elections.
In a statement, Katie Bethell, the political action executive director of MoveOn, expressed the organization's discontent, saying, "With Donald Trump and the Republican Party doubling healthcare premiums, weaponizing our military against us, and ripping food away from children, MoveOn members cannot accept weak leadership at the helm of the Democratic Party." Bethell emphasized that Americans are rallying behind Democrats who stand firm against adversity, both at the polls and in peaceful protests.
She continued, "Inexplicably, some Senate Democrats, under Leader Schumer's watch, decided to surrender. It is time for Senator Schumer to step aside." Notably, around 80% of MoveOn members surveyed believe that Schumer should relinquish his leadership role, highlighting a significant disconnect between the party's leadership and its grassroots supporters.
Although Schumer voted against advancing the proposal to end the government shutdown, this has not shielded him from criticism. Rep. Seth Moulton (D-Mass.), who is running for a Senate seat, remarked, "Everywhere I go, people say there's a leadership vacuum right now in the Democratic Party. We need new leadership." Similarly, Rep. Ro Khanna (D-Calif.) stated, "Senator Schumer is no longer effective and should be replaced." These comments reflect a growing sentiment among some Democratic lawmakers that a change in leadership is necessary for the party's future.
The agreement to reopen the government includes a commitment to hold a vote on extending Affordable Care Act subsidies, a crucial issue for many Americans. This deal comes amid a backdrop of increasing pressure on Schumer and the Democratic leadership to demonstrate effective governance and strong advocacy for progressive policies.
A spokesperson for Schumer declined to comment on MoveOn's request for his resignation. However, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.) voiced his support for Schumer, stating that the majority of Senate Democrats, under Schumer's leadership, have fought valiantly during the recent challenges. Jeffries affirmed on Monday that Schumer should continue serving as the Senate Democratic leader, indicating a divide within the party regarding the future direction and leadership.
As the Democratic Party faces internal strife and calls for change, the pressure mounts on Chuck Schumer to address the concerns of liberal activists and lawmakers who demand stronger, more effective leadership in the face of ongoing political challenges.
