Democrats lash out at Schumer for ‘betrayal’ of siding with Trump
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., is facing backlash from prominent Democrats for his decision to vote for a continuing resolution to keep the federal government open. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y., criticized Schumer’s decision, calling it a “tremendous mistake” and questioning why Senate Democrats would give up their leverage to protect key programs like Social Security, Medicaid, and Medicare.
Schumer, along with Sen. Angus King and Sen. Jeanne Shaheen, were the only Democrats in the Senate to support the bill, which passed with a 54-46 vote. Sen. Rand Paul was the only Republican to vote against the legislation. The decision has drawn criticism from former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, who called the choice “unacceptable.” Anne Caprara, Chief of Staff for Democratic Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker, also urged Democrats to resist President Trump instead of caving.
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries refused to express confidence in Schumer at a press conference, emphasizing that Democrats should not be afraid of a government funding showdown. Democratic allies on television, including CNN commentator Van Jones and MSNBC commentator Symone Sanders, expressed disappointment in Schumer’s decision, with Sanders threatening to change her party registration to independent.
Despite the criticism, some Democrats acknowledged the difficult position the party was in, with Sen. Mark Warner noting that they were faced with two bad choices due to a unified Republican front. Schumer’s office did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
The division within the Democratic Party highlights the ongoing struggle to resist President Trump’s agenda and protect key programs. The decision to support the continuing resolution has sparked debate and criticism within the party, as Democrats grapple with how to effectively oppose the Republican agenda.
