Several prominent Democrats, including Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Sen. Angus King, and Sen. Jeanne Shaheen, criticized Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer for voting in favor of a continuing resolution to keep the federal government open. Ocasio-Cortez argued that this decision was a mistake and that Democrats should not give up leverage to protect programs like Social Security, Medicaid, and Medicare. Even former allies like Nancy Pelosi expressed disappointment in Schumer’s choice and called for Democrats to resist President Trump instead of caving in.
Schumer, along with King and Shaheen, were some of the few Democrats to support the bill, which ultimately passed with a vote of 54 to 46. The only Republican senator to vote against the legislation was Sen. Rand Paul. Schumer, as the most prominent Democrat to back the bill, faced backlash for his decision, particularly from within his own party. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries refused to express confidence in Schumer and urged Senate Democrats to vote against the continuing resolution, emphasizing the need for the party to fight back against Trump.
On television, Democratic allies like Van Jones and Symone Sanders also criticized Schumer for his vote. Jones called for more assertive action from the Democratic Party, while Sanders expressed frustration at Schumer “folding like a paper napkin.” There were calls for more alpha energy and taking a stand against Trump, rather than giving in to his demands. Some Democrats acknowledged that the party was in a difficult position due to Republican unity and the limited options available in the situation.
Senator Mark Warner, who voted against the bill, recognized the tough calls that Democrats were faced with when presented with two bad choices by a united Republican front. Despite the criticism and disappointment from members within his own party, Schumer’s office did not immediately respond to requests for comment from Fox News Digital. The divide within the Democratic Party over the decision to support the continuing resolution highlights the challenges faced by politicians when trying to navigate complex political situations and satisfy the diverse perspectives within the party.
