Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer faces a major test this fall as Congress debates a funding bill to keep the government open.
With President Donald Trump in his second term and Republicans holding narrow majorities in both chambers, Democrats have little leverage but rising pressure from voters demanding stronger opposition. Schumer drew criticism in March after supporting debate on a GOP-led stopgap bill, which critics say enabled its passage.
Lawmakers must reach a deal by October 1 to fund the government through fiscal year 2026. Meanwhile, Democrats are grappling with declining voter registration nationwide, as Republicans gain millions of new voters and expand their coalition. This erosion, especially in swing states, signals serious trouble for Schumer and his party.
