Democrats Criticize Schumer for Aligning with Trump
In a recent discussion on 'Fox News Live,' panelists Richard Fowler and Hogan Gidley examined the backlash Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer faced after supporting a Republican-backed spending bill. Schumer's decision to vote for a continuing resolution to keep the government operational has sparked criticism from several key Democrats.
Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y., expressed her disapproval during an interview with CNN’s Jake Tapper, calling Schumer's move a significant error. She questioned why Senate Democrats would relinquish their leverage without securing protections for Social Security, Medicaid, and Medicare.
Ocasio-Cortez was among many Democrats who criticized Schumer for supporting the House-approved funding bill that prevented a government shutdown. Only Sen. Angus King, an independent aligned with Democrats, and Sen. Jeanne Shaheen, D-N.H., joined Schumer in voting for the bill. Sen. Rand Paul, R-Ky., was the sole Republican opposing it, with the legislation passing 54 to 46.
President Trump has signed the continuing resolution, officially avoiding a shutdown. Schumer, as the most notable Democrat backing the bill, is now under fire, even from some of his long-time supporters.
Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., criticized the decision, stating that the choice presented to the American people was not favorable. Anne Caprara, chief of staff for Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker, also voiced her discontent on social media, urging Democrats to unite against President Trump. She emphasized the current divide within the Democratic Party as being between those willing to fight and those ready to concede.
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, D-N.Y., avoided commenting on his confidence in Schumer during a press conference, where he urged Senate Democrats to oppose the resolution. Jeffries stated that while they do not wish for a government shutdown, they are not afraid of a funding standoff.
On television, Democratic allies criticized Schumer's decision. CNN commentator Van Jones called for stronger opposition to Trump, expressing frustration over the party's lack of assertiveness. MSNBC commentator Symone Sanders voiced her anger, suggesting she might change her party registration to independent.
Despite the criticism, some Democrats acknowledged the difficult position Schumer faced. Sen. Mark Warner, D-Va., who voted against the bill, noted the challenging choices presented by a united Republican front.
Schumer’s office has not yet responded to requests for comment.