Schumer’s Silence on Radical Socialists Sparks Outcry Within Democratic Party
Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) speaks to an aide during a press conference following the weekly policy luncheon on Tuesday, July 30, 2024.
By Charlie McCarthy | Friday, 31 October 2025 08:31 AM EDT
Progressive Rep. Ilhan Omar, D-Minn., criticized Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer for failing to back democratic socialist New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani, accusing him of hypocrisy. During an interview on CNN, Omar stated that Schumer’s inaction “makes no sense,” noting the Democrat leader has previously urged party members to support nominees.
Omar argued that Democrats should unite behind their candidates, saying, “We as Democrats have always believed that, in an election, we support our party’s nominee.” She emphasized that Schumer’s reluctance contradicted his own past demands for solidarity.
The Democratic Party remains fractured over Mamdani’s candidacy. The 34-year-old New York State assemblyman, a self-proclaimed democratic socialist, advocates for rent freezes, expanded welfare programs, and public sector growth. Despite House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries’ endorsement, Schumer has avoided publicly backing Mamdani.
Omar suggested anti-Muslim bias might explain Schumer’s hesitation, citing “a tsunami of anti-Muslim attacks” against Mamdani. She urged support for “the million Muslims who live in New York City and the millions who live in New York and in America.”
Omar dismissed accusations that Mamdani delayed condemning the slogan “Globalize the intifada,” calling claims of antisemitism “overused to the point of absurdity.” She highlighted Mamdani’s broad support among Jewish, Muslim, and young voters.
Mamdani has drawn attention for his socialist platform, including promises to “freeze rents,” “hire thousands of new teachers,” and “take on billionaires.” He rallied alongside progressive figures like Sen. Bernie Sanders, Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, and Gov. Kathy Hochul, framing his campaign as a movement for working families.
Conservatives and moderates have voiced concerns about Mamdani’s agenda. Former Gov. Andrew Cuomo warned of economic devastation, while the National Republican Congressional Committee (NRCC) launched an ad accusing Democrats of embracing “radical socialist Zohran Mamdani.” The NRCC described the party as “willing accomplices in their own collapse.”
President Donald Trump labeled Mamdani a “100% communist lunatic,” warning that cooperation with federal law enforcement could lead to his arrest. With Election Day approaching, Schumer’s reluctance to endorse Mamdani has drawn scrutiny, highlighting internal Democratic divisions over the city’s political direction.
