Senator Chris Van Hollen of Maryland told reporters Monday that he has not ruled out running against Chuck Schumer for Senate Democratic leader, saying he is in listening mode about a potential bid. Van Hollen said the party should not have a coronation and that he has not shut the door on a challenge to Schumer, who is currently minority leader and widely expected to be elected to lead the new Senate majority in January.
Van Hollen's comments come as some Senate Democrats have withheld support for Schumer while seeking clarity on the party's strategy for the next two years. Democrats are scheduled to meet as a group Tuesday to discuss their path forward. Senator Elissa Slotkin of Michigan, who met with Van Hollen on Monday, said she will not vote for a majority leader candidate who cannot articulate a plan, especially for the first 100 days. Slotkin declined over the weekend to rule out her own leadership ambitions.
Both Van Hollen and Slotkin are viewed as potential presidential contenders. Van Hollen had previously suggested his focus was on 2028 and ensuring Democrats win back the White House.
Schumer needs only a majority of the Democratic caucus to win the leadership election during a closed-door meeting scheduled for early December. Many Senate Democrats have expressed support for Schumer following the party's performance in last week's midterm elections. Senator Richard Blumenthal of Connecticut said Monday he plans to continue supporting Schumer but added that the Senate needs new ideas, energy from incoming members, and changes in how it operates.