Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) said he would back Sen. Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) for Senate majority leader if Van Hollen enters the race, a significant endorsement that deepens the internal Democratic divide over current Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.).
Speaking on “The Weekly Show” with Jon Stewart, Sanders made clear he believes the party needs a change at the top. “Look, I have known Chuck Schumer for a very long time. Actually, Chuck and I grew up in the same neighborhood, went to the same elementary school,” Sanders said. “Do I think we need new leadership, which is going to move the Democratic Party in a much more vigorous way to protect the needs of working families? Yes, I do. Absolutely.”
Sanders argued that voters are frustrated with the current direction. “The American people are sick and tired of the status quo,” he said. “We cannot have leadership in the Democratic Party who are going to do the same old, same old.” He then explicitly threw his support behind Van Hollen: “Chris Van Hollen is one guy who has indicated he might be interested in running for leader. If he chooses to do that, I will support him.”
Van Hollen has sent mixed signals about a potential bid. Earlier this week he said he was “in listening mode” and had not “shut the door” on the possibility, after previously wavering on whether to challenge Schumer.
The endorsement comes as Schumer faces growing skepticism within his own caucus. While he retains backing from some veteran senators, many incoming and seasoned lawmakers remain divided. Sanders previously held a press conference with Sen. Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.) where both pledged not to support Schumer for leadership, a move covered in our report on Sanders and Slotkin refusing to back Schumer. Sanders cited Schumer’s insufficient efforts to address income and wealth inequality.
Other Democrats have also declined to commit to Schumer. Sens.-elect Abdul El-Sayed (Mich.), Troy Jackson (Maine), and Adam Hamilton (Kan.) have all withheld their support. Hamilton told reporters that many in his home state view Schumer as “polarizing.” He added, “I mean no disrespect for Chuck Schumer. And I’ve told him that as well. But I think, at least where I live in Kansas, he is kind of a polarizing figure.”
The leadership fight mirrors similar battles in the Republican conference, where Senate GOP leader John Thune has faced conservative backlash, as we reported in Thune surviving a conservative revolt. Both parties are grappling with restive bases demanding new direction.
For now, Schumer’s grip on the leadership post appears uncertain. Sanders’ endorsement of Van Hollen could encourage other progressives to follow suit, potentially turning a simmering discontent into a full-blown challenge. Van Hollen has yet to announce a decision, but the pressure on Schumer is mounting.
