Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) is facing intense criticism from within his own party after confirming his support for the Republican-led continuing resolution (CR) to keep the government funded. His decision has infuriated House Democrats, who nearly unanimously voted against the bill and expected the Senate to follow their lead.
Speaking on the Senate floor Thursday, Schumer admitted that the GOP’s proposal was “deeply flawed” but insisted that shutting down the government would be a greater risk. He claimed that if the government were to close, Trump and his allies would gain the upper hand in shaping federal operations.
His announcement has led to an internal revolt among House Democrats, with reports indicating that many are furious over what they see as a betrayal. One House member described the reaction as a “complete disaster,” with members expressing their anger over private text chains and internal party discussions.
At a Democratic gathering on Thursday, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY) praised his caucus for taking a stand against the bill. When he mentioned Senate Democrats, however, the room erupted in boos, revealing the deep frustration over the divide between the two chambers.
Schumer later appeared on MSNBC, where he made waves by calling Republicans “bastards” before quickly retracting the statement. He accused Trump and Musk of using a shutdown as an opportunity to slash federal jobs and push their own political agenda.
Trump, however, welcomed Schumer’s announcement, saying it was a smart decision. The former president praised Schumer’s willingness to set aside party differences and support the funding bill. His comments have only further inflamed tensions among progressives, who feel Schumer has given in to GOP demands.
With the Senate vote expected on Friday, House Democrats are making last-minute efforts to convince their Senate counterparts to vote against the measure. Some lawmakers have already suggested they will back primary challenges to any Democrat who votes in favor of the bill.
