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A growing divide in the Democratic Party has emerged as Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez sets her sights on potentially challenging Sen. Chuck Schumer, while newly-elected Sen. Elissa Slotkin cautions against embracing progressive ideals without practical results.
The tensions have become evident during Bernie Sanders’ “Fighting Oligarchy” tour, where AOC has joined the independent socialist senator. The tour has taken on new significance following the Democrats’ disappointing performance in recent elections, where they failed to secure swing states and lost several Senate seats while Republicans maintained control of the House.
The situation intensified after Senate Minority Leader Schumer’s pragmatic approach to recent budget negotiations sparked outrage among progressives. According to NBC News, this has led to calls of “Primary Chuck” from supporters, with some of Ocasio-Cortez’s House colleagues encouraging her to challenge Schumer in 2028.
Mark Penn, Former Clinton Pollster, says that if AOC decides to challenge Chuck Schumer for leadership, it could destroy the Democratic party.
"The moderates are leaving this party…AOC taking off Schumer, wow, that could finish this party off."
Their approval ratings are in… pic.twitter.com/hyBEBbal6j
— DeVory Darkins (@devorydarkins) March 21, 2025
Seizing the moment, AOC declared during a Las Vegas stop, “This isn’t just about Republicans. We need a Democratic Party that fights harder for us, too.” She added, “But what that means is that we as a community must choose and vote for Democrats and elected officials who know how to stand for the working class.”
Meanwhile, Slotkin, who secured victory in Trump-won Michigan, albeit by a narrower margin than expected, has emerged as a voice of moderate liberalism. During a recent town hall meeting, she directly addressed the AOC approach, stating, “I can’t do what she does, because we live in a purple state and I’m a pragmatist.” She challenged the effectiveness of progressive rhetoric, asking, “Everyone you mentioned has a lot of words, but what have they actually done to change the situation with Donald Trump?”
Wow 🤣🤣🤣Bernie Sanders is such a coward. He picked up and left the interview and had to be talked into coming back when ABC brought up AOC maybe running for Senate or taking Schumer role. ALSO he doesn’t want ANYONE taking his shine as he tries to make it 9 times a charm to run… pic.twitter.com/fybH3Rcupe
— Johnny St.Pete (@JohnMcCloy) March 23, 2025
This internal party conflict unfolds as Democrats attempt various rebranding strategies. California Governor Gavin Newsom has launched a podcast featuring debates with Republicans and appears to be moderating his traditionally liberal positions. Schumer faces criticism from his own party for not opposing a Republican-led spending package, while former President Biden and Vice President Harris maintain a low profile.
The Democratic Party now finds itself at a crossroads, with progressive forces pushing for radical change while moderates advocate for practical solutions that can win elections. As the party struggles to unite these competing visions, the effectiveness of either approach remains to be tested in upcoming electoral challenges.
