Angry Dems push AOC to primary Chuck Schumer

 March 15, 2025

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, a Democrat from New York, recently crossed the aisle and voted with Republicans to avoid a government shutdown.

Many liberals in this country are not happy with his decision.

In fact, The New York Post reports that frustration has escalated to the point where some Democrats are now urging progressive "Squad" member Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez to mount a primary challenge against Schumer in the future.

According to CNN, one Democrat stated that he and his colleagues are "'so mad' that they are 'ready to write checks for AOC for Senate.'"

Schumer's Decision

Schumer’s move to back a Republican-led stopgap funding bill has sparked outrage among progressive Democrats. His support helped secure the necessary votes for the bill’s passage, but many liberals remain staunchly opposed to aiding Republicans—even if it prevents a government shutdown.

House Democrats, led by Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, largely opposed the bill. Many felt they were taking a political risk by allowing the possibility of a shutdown.

Now, instead of achieving their objectives, they appear both willing to shut the government down and politically weakened.

Another source of frustration among Democrats was the timing of Schumer’s support. Initially, he signaled opposition to the bill but ultimately switched positions at the last minute.

Adding to the outrage, former President Donald Trump praised Schumer’s decision, calling it "gutsy" and "courageous." Given Trump’s deep unpopularity among progressive Democrats, any move he supports often faces immediate resistance from the left.

Challenge from AOC

Schumer’s alignment with Trump’s stance has fueled calls from some progressives for a challenge from Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.

AOC has been vocal in her criticism of Schumer’s decision, expressing frustration over his handling of the situation. Given her strong support among progressive voters, speculation is growing that she could pose a serious challenge to the longtime senator.

"I think there is a deep sense of outrage and betrayal," AOC recently said about Schumer.

The question now is whether Ocasio-Cortez will take action—and if she does, whether she could successfully unseat Schumer in a primary battle.