Democrats are in open revolt against Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer after eight members of his caucus collaborated with Republicans to end the longest government shutdown in US history without securing healthcare concessions. The deal, reached on Sunday, did not include an extension of tax credits for Affordable Care Act (ACA) health plans, a key Democratic demand.
Progressive groups and some lawmakers are calling for Schumer's resignation, accusing him of leadership failure. Rick Wilson, co-founder of the Lincoln Project, wrote that Schumer should resign immediately, calling the episode a 'colossal leadership failure'. Our Revolution executive director Joseph Geevarghese said Schumer should step down, arguing he is either a liar or inept.
In the House, three Democrats have publicly called for Schumer's removal: Mike Levin, Ro Khanna, and Rashida Tlaib. However, no Senate Democrats have joined the calls, and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries expressed support for Schumer, saying he is effective and should keep his post.
The rebellion echoes a similar dispute earlier this year when Schumer initially opposed a short-term funding measure before voting for it, sparking backlash from liberal groups. Schumer survived that challenge, but the current crisis has intensified as the shutdown dragged on for 41 days.
Republicans, led by Senate Majority Leader John Thune and House Speaker Mike Johnson, held firm, blaming the 'Schumer shutdown' and refusing to negotiate on ACA subsidies. The compromise now paves the way for the government to reopen, but the Democratic infighting shows no sign of abating.
