Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer is facing a Democratic revolt after siding with Republicans on a critical funding bill, prompting calls for his resignation and sharp criticism from both sides of the aisle. Some progressives argue that Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez should challenge Schumer for his seat. Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.) said that Schumer is “about as popular as chlamydia” among Democrats.
Progressive Backlash Against Schumer
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer finds himself in hot water with the progressive wing of his own party following his decision to support a Republican funding bill. The move has ignited significant backlash from the left flank of the Democratic Party, who view the decision as a betrayal of core progressive values. Calls for Schumer’s resignation have begun circulating among grassroots activists and some progressive lawmakers, revealing the deepening ideological divide within the Democratic coalition.
The intensity of the intra-party conflict has escalated to the point where some progressives are suggesting that Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez should challenge Schumer for his Senate seat. This potential primary challenge represents more than mere political posturing—it highlights the fundamental tension between the establishment and progressive wings of the Democratic Party. The situation has created an unusual moment of vulnerability for Schumer, who has led Senate Democrats since 2017.
Senator John Kennedy says Chuck Schumer ‘about as Popular as Chlamydia’ among leftists after voting with GOP.
😂😂😂 pic.twitter.com/FfiQvzwuDO
— ACT For America (@ACTforAmerica) March 20, 2025
Kennedy’s Colorful Assessment
Republican Senator John Kennedy of Louisiana seized the opportunity to deliver a pointed assessment of Schumer’s predicament. Kennedy, known for his colorful rhetorical style, did not mince words when describing Schumer’s standing among fellow Democrats. His commentary has drawn attention to the gravity of Schumer’s position within his own party and highlighted the political calculations behind the Senate Majority Leader’s decision to work across the aisle on the funding bill.
“Among them right now, we’ve all seen the news; he’s about as popular as Chlamydia.” – Sen. John Kennedy
Kennedy acknowledged Schumer’s intelligence while simultaneously questioning his judgment. “I don’t hate anybody, and that includes Senator Schumer. He’s very smart. On the other hand, Chuck’s often wrong. He never makes the same mistake twice; he makes it five or six times just to be sure,” Kennedy remarked. This assessment captures the complex political dynamics at play, where even opponents can recognize capabilities while criticizing leadership decisions.
Senator Kennedy on Senator Chuck Schumer "Chuck is as popular as chlamydia". "He's very smart and never makes the same mistake twice. He makes it 5 or 6 times to make sure". pic.twitter.com/2KkDVDaJ87
— Mister Sugar (@ScottWi92107364) March 20, 2025
Strategic Considerations
Despite his criticism of Schumer, Kennedy expressed support for the majority leader’s decision to back the funding bill. Kennedy emphasized the practical limitations of government shutdowns as political tools, stating, “Unless a football coach taught you history, you understand that shutting government down never achieves anything.” This rare moment of bipartisan agreement highlights the complex reality of governance that sometimes transcends party loyalties.
Kennedy described the Democratic Party as being controlled by its “loon wing,” suggesting that the progressive influence on the party has created an untenable position for moderate Democrats like Schumer. The Louisiana senator indicated that Republicans see strategic advantage in allowing Democrats to continue pushing what he characterized as radical positions, believing this will alienate moderate voters. However, Kennedy also expressed concern that while Democratic extremism might benefit Republicans politically, it poses potential harm to America’s long-term interests.
Implications for Democratic Leadership
The current tensions within the Democratic Party reflect broader questions about its direction and leadership. Schumer’s support for the GOP funding bill represents more than a single policy decision—it highlights the difficult balancing act facing Democratic leaders attempting to satisfy both progressive demands and pragmatic governance imperatives. The willingness of progressives to openly challenge Schumer suggests a growing confidence in their political leverage within the party.
Kennedy warned that while Democrats are currently experiencing internal conflict and facing challenges, they could potentially regain full political power in the future. This observation underscores the cyclical nature of American politics and the danger of dismissing political opponents during moments of apparent weakness. For Republicans observing the Democratic infighting, Kennedy’s message serves as a reminder that today’s political advantages can quickly reverse in future electoral cycles.