Van Hollen Challenges Schumer For Senate Majority Leader: What To Know About The Democratic Leadership Race

Maryland Democratic Sen. Chris Van Hollen is running for Senate majority leader in the new Congress, setting up a direct challenge to New York Sen. Chuck Schumer.

In a social media post, Van Hollen said the party needs “new leadership” after midterm elections in which Democrats won enough seats to take control of the chamber. “This isn’t about any one person -- it’s about answering that call,” he said in the post.

Schumer, who has led Senate Democrats since 2017, responded quickly. He said he welcomes “discussion about the future of our caucus” and added, “I have the votes to continue serving as Democratic Leader.”

Van Hollen Makes His Case For New Senate Democratic Leadership

Van Hollen, a two-term senator, announced his bid Thursday during an appearance on MSNOW. He described the moment as one of opportunity for his party.

“This is a generational opportunity for the Senate to respond to the call of the American people for change ... They’ve given us a chance. We have to earn their trust, and my view is that you can’t earn that trust with old leadership. You need to move on to new leadership.”

Schumer Says He Has The Votes To Remain Democratic Leader

Schumer posted his full response on X.

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“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 Democratic majority and delivering for the American people,” he wrote.

Senate Democratic Leadership Election Date And How The Vote Works

The Senate Democratic leadership elections are expected to take place in December. The caucus selects its leader by majority vote.

Van Hollen acknowledged he is the underdog in the race but said he is optimistic he can win support from his Senate colleagues.

“Now people will have to make a decision, one way or the other, and they have to decide whether they want to vote for change or whether they want to vote for the status quo.”