Chuck Schumer rise tested by liberals

In one camp are a number of Democrats, such as Sen. Claire McCaskill of Missouri, who believe it’s a matter of “when” Schumer will eventually lead the caucus, not “if.” Several in this school of thought, including some liberals, even quietly turned to Schumer after Democrats lost the Senate majority, urging him to mount a challenge for party leader instead. Schumer declined to make a run by citing his loyalty to Reid, according to three senators familiar with the private discussions.

But some Schumer detractors privately argue the hard-charging New York Democrat is suddenly facing new competition for the spotlight, with popular Democrats such as Patty Murray of Washington, Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota and, of course, Warren, waiting in the wings. The longer Schumer waits, some top Democrats speculate, a note of uncertainty creeps over a man who has long been seen as the “inevitable” Reid successor.

McCaskill, who was one of six Democrats to vote against Reid, said, “I think that Chuck Schumer has a unique ability to unite our caucus and make sure that we are communicating our values to the American people — and someday he’ll be a terrific leader.”