A progressive House member from Chicago, Rep. Delia Ramirez, is joining the call for Minority Leader Chuck Schumer to resign from his leadership role. This move comes as a response to Schumer’s decision to allow a vote on a Republican spending plan to avert a government shutdown.
Standing Against Spending Cuts
In a statement on Wednesday, Ramirez criticized Schumer for not leveraging the possibility of a shutdown to oppose President Donald Trump’s proposed spending cuts. These cuts would further impact programs and government employees already struggling due to recent events involving Elon Musk and the Department of Government Efficiency.
“This is a crucial moment for Democrats to take concrete actions against Trump’s agenda of dismantling Social Security and Medicaid, rather than just talking about it,” Ramirez emphasized in an interview.
Growing Dissent Among House Members
Ramirez’s stance adds to a growing chorus of House members who are either questioning Schumer’s leadership or calling for his resignation. This sentiment might gain momentum as representatives engage with constituents during the recess period. As of now, no senators from Schumer’s party have openly supported calls for his resignation.
During a town hall, Ramirez was asked whether Schumer should step down as minority leader. In response, she affirmed the sentiment and stressed the importance of Democratic leaders listening to their constituents and making tough decisions to uphold their values.
Unity Within the Democratic Party
Despite the criticism, nearly all Democratic House members rejected the Republican spending plan under the leadership of House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries. While Schumer criticized the bill, he argued that a government shutdown would only benefit Trump and Musk by enabling them to expedite layoffs and agency cuts.
Despite mounting pressure, Schumer has reiterated his intention to remain in his position.
Support and Criticism from Within the Party
Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, a close ally of Schumer, expressed her continued support for him but acknowledged his misstep in relinquishing leverage during the budget negotiations. Similarly, Democratic Rep. Glenn Ivey suggested at a town hall in Suitland, Maryland, that Schumer should contemplate stepping down.
Ramirez’s stance on Schumer, initially reported by Axios, reflects the sentiments echoed by her constituents.
Listening to Constituents
“Every person I spoke with, and those in the town hall, expressed their dissatisfaction with the current Democratic leadership,” Ramirez shared. “There is a strong belief that more action is needed from our leaders.”
As the debate around government spending and leadership intensifies, the Democratic Party faces internal challenges that may shape its direction in the coming months.
