Machinists Union Urges Schumer to Make Way for New Leadership

IAM International President Brian Bryant wrote that the union’s executive council, after discussions, would not support Schumer’s bid to remain leader. He thanked Schumer for his years of service but urged returning and newly elected senators to choose a consensus leader who could unite the party and advance a “bold vision for working people.”

Bryant said new leadership could help Democrats turn the election into lasting progress. He urged the party to pass the Protecting the Right to Organize Act, restore collective bargaining rights for federal workers, reinstate the Affordable Care Act, provide Americans with needed health care and approve rail safety legislation. The union’s “Workers vs. Billionaires” movement, he said, reflects demand for an economy and political system that put working families ahead of wealthy interests.

The union’s call came hours after Sen. Chris Van Hollen of Maryland said he had not ruled out challenging Schumer and wanted a full caucus discussion. Van Hollen said he was listening to senators and voters, especially newly elected members, and argued there should be no “coronation.” He met Monday with Sen. Elissa Slotkin of Michigan, who has not endorsed Schumer.

Sen. Richard Blumenthal of Connecticut initially called for a leadership discussion and “new energy and ideas,” but later said he expected Schumer to become majority leader and planned to support him. Schumer and House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries also issued a statement saying Democrats were united and ready to lead. Jeffries, who faces calls from some newly elected progressives to step aside in the House speaker race, has also been pressed to respond to demands for a more ambitious agenda. Representative-elect Melat Kiros of Colorado said new members want policies that reduce costs for working families, address corruption and reflect their values in foreign policy.