Exclusive: MoveOn calls on Schumer to step aside
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The progressive grassroots group MoveOn is calling on Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer to step down from his powerful role after moderate Democrats joined with Republicans to work to end the government shutdown.
Why it matters: The falling-out, first shared with Axios, is the latest sign that Schumer's (D-N.Y.) popularity with the Democratic base is eroding.
- MoveOn and other liberal organizations worked closely with Schumer and his aides earlier this year on the party's shutdown strategy.
- But Democratic lawmakers and activists have erupted at the news that eight members of the Senate Democratic caucus folded after the party over-performed in last Tuesday's elections.
What they're saying: "With Donald Trump and the Republican Party doubling healthcare premiums, weaponizing our military against us, and ripping food away from children, MoveOn members cannot accept weak leadership at the helm of the Democratic Party," said Katie Bethell, MoveOn's political action executive director, in a statement.
- "Americans showed a growing surge of support for Democrats who fought back — both at the ballot box last week and peacefully in the streets last month. Inexplicably, some Senate Democrats, under Leader Schumer's watch, decided to surrender," she added. "It is time for Senator Schumer to step aside."
- Around 80% of MoveOn members that the group surveyed said that Schumer should quit his leadership position, according to the organization.
Zoom in: Schumer voted against moving forward the proposal to end the shutdown, but that hasn't stopped progressives and House Democrats from lashing out at him.
- "Everywhere I go, people say there's a leadership vacuum right now in the Democratic Party," said Rep. Seth Moulton (D-Mass.), who is running for the Senate. "We need new leadership."
- Rep. Ro Khanna (D-Calif.) said, "Senator Schumer is no longer effective and should be replaced."
- The deal to re-open the government includes a promise to hold a vote on extending Affordable Care Act subsidies.
The other side: A spokesperson for Schumer declined to comment.
- House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.) is standing alongside Schumer, saying Monday that "the overwhelming majority of Senate Democrats, led by Chuck Schumer, have waged a valiant fight over the last seven weeks."
- Jeffries added on Monday that Schumer should stay on as Senate Democratic leader.
