Maryland Sen. Chris Van Hollen announced he will challenge Sen. Chuck Schumer to lead Senate Democrats.
Van Hollen argued that Democrats’ midterm victory calls for new leadership as the party prepares to take control of the chamber. He made his bid public Thursday, Nov. 12, after progressive activists and some newly elected Democratic senators urged him to run. He described the contest as a choice about the party’s direction.
He said Democrats should respond to voters seeking change, particularly working people. Schumer has led Senate Democrats since 2017 and welcomed discussion about the caucus’s future. He said he has the votes to continue as leader.
The incoming group of Senate Democrats is expected to choose its leader in a private vote in early December, with senators voting by secret ballot. Schumer remains favored. The challenge sets up an unusually direct test of his support among senators after Democrats’ election gains.
Van Hollen has also outlined priorities that include addressing the Iran war, reversing Trump’s major legislation, and addressing political corruption.