Vice President JD Vance claimed Monday that Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer is holding up a funding deal out of fear of facing a primary challenge from Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.
Vance argued that Schumer’s refusal to back a clean continuing resolution is not about policy substance but political survival, suggesting the Senate leader is worried about being outflanked by progressives in New York.
According to Vance, Republicans have already put forward straightforward proposals to keep the government open, while Democrats insist on attaching additional spending measures. He framed Schumer’s strategy as one that risks a shutdown for personal political protection rather than national interest.
The comments add to mounting tensions in Washington, with hours left before a potential lapse in government funding.