Kennedy Compares Schumer's Popularity to Chlamydia Amid Democratic Infighting

Senator John Kennedy (R-LA) defended Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) amidst backlash from Democrats after Schumer supported a spending resolution that avoided a government shutdown. Kennedy controversially likened Schumer's current popularity among Democrats to 'chlamydia,' suggesting that this reflects more on the Democratic Party than on Schumer himself. Despite the criticism, Kennedy noted that most Senate Democrats backed Schumer's decision. Some Democratic members are reportedly pressuring Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez to challenge Schumer in the 2028 primaries, though Kennedy dismissed the likelihood of such a challenge succeeding. Schumer, who has expressed confidence in his leadership, continues to navigate the party's internal strife, with House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries supporting him. The infighting highlights a significant rift within the Democratic Party as it grapples with its identity and direction.