Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) defended his decision to join Republicans in passing a six-month government funding bill, stressing that the alternative would have led to devastating consequences. Speaking on ABC News’ “The View” on Tuesday, March 18, 2025, Schumer insisted that letting the government shut down would have wreaked unprecedented havoc. “I felt as a leader I had to do it,” he remarked, elaborating on the challenge he faced in uniting members of his party amid differing views.
The vote took place on March 14, 2025, when Schumer chose to end debate on the so-called “continuing resolution.” As he noted, only nine Democrats supported him in the vote, indicating a significant divide within the party. This division was apparent as some progressive members expressed disappointment, pointing fingers at Schumer and questioning his leadership. Nonetheless, he asserted, “The fight going on in the Democratic Party right now is not between hard-left, right, and moderate, but between those who want to fight and those who want to cave.”
The standout moment in the episode came when co-host Whoopi Goldberg confronted Schumer about his decision to align with Republicans, challenging the sincerity of his leadership. “What were you thinking and why?” Goldberg asked, provoking Schumer to reiterate the potential calamity of a government shutdown. Conceding the tough position he was in, he said, “I knew it was a difficult choice.”
As proof of the precarious situation, Schumer cited fears that, had the federal government ceased operations at 11:59 PM on March 14, crucial programs, including Social Security and Medicaid, could have faced cuts. He highlighted a Republican senator's warning that the Trump administration, represented by figures like Elon Musk and Office of Management and Budget Director Russ Vought, were prepared to label these programs as non-essential — a move that could have disastrous implications.
“No one fights more than me,” Schumer added, defending his record and leadership. “That bill was bad. I hated it, but it does far less damage [than a shutdown].” His refusal to allow a shutdown stemmed from a belief that it would have jeopardized vital governmental functions, affecting millions of Americans who depend on such services.
The discussion of Schumer's leadership drew contrasts with rising stars within the party. Former Trump aide and co-host Alyssa Farah Griffin questioned whether Schumer should step aside to let fresh leadership emerge, pointing out the talent pool the party holds. Schumer recognized this wealth of talent but retorted, “I should be the leader” of the Senate Democratic caucus.
Progressive representatives such as Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez have reportedly critiqued Schumer's decision, seeing it as a concession of leverage in their congressional negotiations. Schumer’s approach has ignited discussions about who might be poised to succeed him, as he gears up for a potential showdown against Ocasio-Cortez’s influence.
