# Sanders opposes Schumer for Democratic leader

> Vermont senator becomes most prominent progressive to reject New York colleague's bid to lead Senate Democrats.
- Title: Sanders opposes Schumer for Democratic leader · CBS News
- Summary: Vermont senator becomes most prominent progressive to reject New York colleague's bid to lead Senate Democrats.
- Keywords: bernie sanders, chuck schumer, democratic leadership, senate democrats, elissa slotkin, chris van hollen, 120th congress, CBS News
- Source: CBS News — https://cbsnews.com/news/bernie-sanders-chuck-schumer-democratic-leader-senate
- Author: Stefan  Becket
- Published: 2026-11-10T20:39:37+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: bernie sanders, chuck schumer, democratic leadership, senate democrats, elissa slotkin, chris van hollen, 120th congress, news
## Sanders rejects Schumer
Vermont senator Bernie Sanders announced Tuesday he will not support New York senator Chuck Schumer as Democratic leader when the party controls the Senate.

> I will not be supporting Chuck to be reelected as the Democratic leader.
## Democrats will control 54 seats
Democrats will hold at least fifty four seats when the one hundred twentieth Congress convenes in January, giving them Senate control.
## Sanders calls for change
Sanders said the midterm elections showed Americans want change on economic issues. He called for a vigorous debate about the Democratic Party's direction.

> the time is now for change
## Slotkin demands concrete plans
Michigan Democratic senator Elissa Slotkin appeared with Sanders and said any leadership candidate must show a concrete plan for governing differently.

> Whoever wants my vote is going to have to show me a concrete plan that's definitively different.
## Van Hollen explores a run
Maryland senator Chris Van Hollen said he is calling colleagues and exploring a potential run for Democratic leader. Leadership elections are expected in early December.

> I'm in listening mode and haven't shut the door.
## Key takeaway

Bernie Sanders said Tuesday he will not support Chuck Schumer as Democratic leader when Democrats control the Senate starting in January.