Deepening Democrat fractures erupted into public view this week as a covert group of left-wing senators formed a rebellion against Senate minority leader Chuck Schumer’s leadership strategy. The informal coalition, calling itself the “Fight Club,” has grown increasingly vocal about what members describe as Schumer’s favoritism toward establishment candidates and his insufficient resistance to the Trump agenda, according to the New York Times.
At least six senators participate in the group, including Chris Van Hollen, Tina Smith, Chris Murphy, Elizabeth Warren, and independent socialist Bernie Sanders. Democratic senators Ed Markey, Jeff Merkley, and Martin Heinrich have also joined some of the group’s activities. The Times reported that they share a “mutinous mood” driven by “widespread doubts among the Democratic base that party leaders in Congress have a strong vision and a winning strategy for returning to power.”
The unrest intensified after centrist Democrats voted with Republicans to reopen the government earlier this month. Progressives blasted Schumer for failing to keep his caucus unified. Murphy said reopening was a mistake, while Sanders called the vote “a very bad night.” Reps. Ro Khanna and Seth Moulton argued Schumer was ineffective and urged his removal.
The tensions escalated further during Zohran Mamdani’s mayoral campaign. Progressives pressured Schumer for months to support the socialist candidate, but Schumer refused, even as House minority leader Hakeem Jeffries and Governor Kathy Hochul eventually complied. Mamdani’s victory emboldened far-left activists who now threaten primary challenges against Democrats who resist their agenda.
Some strategists warn the internal revolt is unprecedented. “I can think of no historical example that would compare to this level of internal caucus fear and dissension,” Democratic strategist Josh Horton told the Times. He said the group’s “guerrilla” posture and sweeping critique of party leadership “feels unique.”
