Growing Fractures within the Democratic Party as Ocasio-Cortez Calls for Schumer's Demise
A disturbing trend is emerging within the Democratic Party, with some prominent donors and strategists urging Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez to challenge Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer in a primary election. The sentiment has been fueled by Schumer's handling of the recent government shutdown, which eight Democrats joined Republicans to end, allowing centrist Democrats to lose their "chicken game" – a political battle they had previously appeared to be winning.
Critics blame Schumer for ceding control over his caucus, allowing moderates to gain upper hand. In response, many are now calling upon Ocasio-Cortez to take on the challenge of replacing Schumer in 2028, when he is up for re-election. According to a recent Siena College poll, Schumer's approval rating stands at an all-time low of 39% among New Yorkers, with over 46% disapproving of his handling of Senate Democrats.
Ocasio-Cortez, on the other hand, has been experiencing significant surge in popularity, particularly after her high-profile campaign alongside Sen. Bernie Sanders and her role as a key ally to New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani. The young representative's energy, charisma, and fighting spirit have earned her widespread admiration from party members.
Several prominent strategists are now predicting that Schumer has reached the end of his career, with one strategist labeling him "the past." Susan Del Percio, a New York-based analyst, echoed this sentiment, stating that Ocasio-Cortez would likely beat Schumer in a primary. The growing divide within the Democratic Party raises serious questions about the party's leadership and direction.
As tensions continue to simmer, it remains to be seen whether Schumer will face a primary challenge from Ocasio-Cortez. However, one thing is clear – the future of the Democratic Party hangs in the balance, with its leaders facing intense scrutiny from within their own ranks.
A disturbing trend is emerging within the Democratic Party, with some prominent donors and strategists urging Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez to challenge Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer in a primary election. The sentiment has been fueled by Schumer's handling of the recent government shutdown, which eight Democrats joined Republicans to end, allowing centrist Democrats to lose their "chicken game" – a political battle they had previously appeared to be winning.
Critics blame Schumer for ceding control over his caucus, allowing moderates to gain upper hand. In response, many are now calling upon Ocasio-Cortez to take on the challenge of replacing Schumer in 2028, when he is up for re-election. According to a recent Siena College poll, Schumer's approval rating stands at an all-time low of 39% among New Yorkers, with over 46% disapproving of his handling of Senate Democrats.
Ocasio-Cortez, on the other hand, has been experiencing significant surge in popularity, particularly after her high-profile campaign alongside Sen. Bernie Sanders and her role as a key ally to New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani. The young representative's energy, charisma, and fighting spirit have earned her widespread admiration from party members.
Several prominent strategists are now predicting that Schumer has reached the end of his career, with one strategist labeling him "the past." Susan Del Percio, a New York-based analyst, echoed this sentiment, stating that Ocasio-Cortez would likely beat Schumer in a primary. The growing divide within the Democratic Party raises serious questions about the party's leadership and direction.
As tensions continue to simmer, it remains to be seen whether Schumer will face a primary challenge from Ocasio-Cortez. However, one thing is clear – the future of the Democratic Party hangs in the balance, with its leaders facing intense scrutiny from within their own ranks.