Senate leaders face leadership questions after Democrats win majority

Senators returned to Washington Monday facing internal leadership debates after Democrats won a significant new Senate majority in last week's elections, with Republicans weighing whether to reelect John Thune and Democrats questioning Chuck Schumer's future. Republicans, losing about a quarter of their conference to defeats and retirements, are scheduled to vote Tuesday on Thune, though some senators seek a delay to discuss election lessons first. Democrats, potentially holding 56 seats, are privately debating Schumer's leadership, with Maryland Sen. Chris Van Hollen considering a challenge. Both leaders are expected to win majority support in secret-ballot votes, with Republicans voting this week and Democrats likely in December. The discussions could shape party effectiveness in the next Congress and perceptions ahead of the 2028 presidential election, as lawmakers also work to fund the government and confirm Trump nominees.