Schumer’s Shift On GOP Bill Triggers Party-Wide Uproar

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) has reversed course and announced his support for a Republican-backed government funding bill, a move that has sparked intense anger among House Democrats. His decision comes just days after he pushed for an alternative funding measure, arguing that the GOP plan did not meet the nation’s needs.

On the Senate floor Thursday, Schumer acknowledged the Republican bill was far from ideal but said he believed allowing a shutdown would be a greater threat. He claimed that Trump and his allies would use a government closure to further their influence, a risk he was unwilling to take.

His shift has left House Democrats furious, with many feeling blindsided. Reports indicate that members flooded internal party channels with outrage, with some going as far as to suggest recruiting primary challengers to replace Senate Democrats who vote in favor of the bill.

During a retreat Thursday, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY) congratulated House Democrats for standing against the bill. When he mentioned Senate Democrats, however, the reaction was overwhelmingly negative, with loud boos echoing through the room.

Schumer added to the controversy later that evening during an MSNBC appearance, where he lashed out at Republicans, referring to them as “bastards” before quickly correcting himself. He also warned that Trump and Musk were planning deep cuts to government agencies if a shutdown occurred.

Trump, meanwhile, celebrated Schumer’s decision, calling it a bold move and praising his willingness to support the Republican-backed spending plan. The endorsement from Trump has only increased progressive frustrations, with some accusing Schumer of giving in to GOP demands.

With the Senate set to vote on the bill Friday, at least eight Democrats will need to support it to overcome the filibuster. Meanwhile, House Democrats are working behind the scenes to stop the measure, with some members vowing to fund efforts to challenge Senate Democrats who vote in favor of the bill.