Full History Of Chuck Schumer In Timeline From 1933

1933: Glass-Steagall Act

The Glass-Steagall Act of 1933 was enacted.

November 23, 1950: Chuck Schumer's birth

On November 23, 1950, Charles Ellis Schumer was born. He is an American politician who has served as a United States senator from New York since 1999.

1967: Graduated as valedictorian

In 1967, Chuck Schumer graduated as the valedictorian of James Madison High School, scoring 1600 on the SAT.

1968: Switched major at Harvard College

In 1968, Chuck Schumer switched from chemistry to social studies at Harvard College after volunteering on Eugene McCarthy's presidential campaign.

1971: Graduated from Harvard College

In 1971, Chuck Schumer graduated magna cum laude and Phi Beta Kappa from Harvard College.

1974: Earned Juris Doctor from Harvard Law School

In 1974, Chuck Schumer earned his Juris Doctor with honors from Harvard Law School.

1974: Elected to the New York State Assembly

In 1974, Chuck Schumer was elected to the New York State Assembly.

1975: New York State Assembly Member

In 1975, Chuck Schumer became a member of the New York State Assembly.

1975: Began service in the New York State Assembly

In 1975, Chuck Schumer began serving his term in the New York State Assembly.

1975: Passed the New York state bar exam

In early 1975, Chuck Schumer passed the New York state bar exam but opted for a career in politics instead of practicing law.

September 21, 1980: Schumer marries Iris Weinshall

On September 21, 1980, Chuck Schumer married Iris Weinshall at Windows on the World, located atop the north tower of the World Trade Center.

1980: Won election to U.S. House of Representatives

In 1980, Chuck Schumer won the election to the U.S. House of Representatives after Elizabeth Holtzman vacated her seat to run for Senate.

1980: End of term in New York State Assembly

In 1980, Chuck Schumer's three-term tenure in the New York State Assembly concluded.

1981: Began service in the U.S. House of Representatives

In 1981, Chuck Schumer began serving in the U.S. House of Representatives, representing New York's 16th congressional district.

1981: Elected to U.S. House of Representatives

In 1981, Chuck Schumer was elected to the United States House of Representatives.

1981: End of term in the New York State Legislature

In 1981, Chuck Schumer's tenure in the New York State Assembly concluded.

1982: Prepared for potential matchup with Solarz

In 1982, Chuck Schumer prepared for a potential matchup with Solarz due to redistricting and sought campaign donations from Wall Street.

1983: Redistricting to the 10th Congressional District

In 1983, Chuck Schumer's district was redistricted and became the 10th congressional district.

1987: Opposition to repeal of Glass-Steagall Act

In 1987, then-Representative Schumer wrote a New York Times op-ed opposing repeal of the Glass–Steagall Act of 1933, titled "Don't Let Banks Become Casinos".

March 11, 1993: Introduced Religious Freedom Restoration Act

On March 11, 1993, Chuck Schumer introduced the Religious Freedom Restoration Act (RFRA).

1993: Redistricting to the 9th Congressional District

In 1993, Chuck Schumer's district was redistricted and became the 9th congressional district.

1994: Schumer Joined Campaign to Revoke Tax-Exempt Status of Holy Land Foundation

In 1994, Schumer joined the Anti-Defamation League and the American Jewish Congress in a campaign to get the IRS to revoke the tax-exempt status of the Palestinian-American charity the Holy Land Foundation.

1994: Authored Crime Law

In 1994, Schumer wrote the law while head of the crime subcommittee in the House that allows the death penalty in certain cases.

1994: Schumer Co-Authors Assault Weapons Ban

In 1994, then-representative Chuck Schumer and Senator Dianne Feinstein co-authored the Assault Weapons Ban. Supporters of gun control legislation credit Schumer for passage of both the Assault Weapons Ban and the Brady Handgun Violence Prevention Act.

1995: Schumer Sponsors Omnibus Counterterrorism Act of 1995

In 1995, Chuck Schumer sponsored the Omnibus Counterterrorism Act of 1995 (H.R. 896) in the House of Representatives.

1995: Oversaw the Waco siege hearings

In 1995, Chuck Schumer, as a member of the House Judiciary Committee, oversaw the House investigation of the Waco siege hearings, leading the Democratic party's defense of the Clinton administration.

1995: Reference to Jerusalem Embassy Act of 1995

Reference to the Jerusalem Embassy Act of 1995, which Schumer had sponsored legislation to fulfill.

December 1998: Schumer voted "no" on all counts in Clinton's impeachment

In December 1998, during a lame-duck session of Congress, Chuck Schumer, as a member of the House of Representatives and Judiciary Committee, voted "no" on all counts in the impeachment of President Bill Clinton.

1998: Elected to the Senate

In 1998, Chuck Schumer was elected to the Senate, defeating Al D'Amato.

1998: Won the Democratic primary for Senate

In 1998, Chuck Schumer won the Democratic primary for Senate with 51% of the vote and went on to defeat incumbent Al D'Amato in the general election.

January 1999: Schumer voted "not guilty" on impeachment charges

In January 1999, Chuck Schumer, as a newly elected member of the Senate, voted "not guilty" on the two impeachment charges against President Bill Clinton.

1999: Became a U.S. Senator

In 1999, Chuck Schumer became a United States Senator representing New York.

1999: End of term in the United States House of Representatives

In 1999, Chuck Schumer's nine terms in the United States House of Representatives concluded.

1999: Support for repeal of Glass-Steagall Act

In 1999, Schumer supported Congress's repeal of Glass–Steagall, saying: "There are many reasons for this bill, but first and foremost is to ensure that U.S. financial firms remain competitive."

May 2001: Introduced legislation on generic drugs

In May 2001, Chuck Schumer and Senator John McCain introduced legislation to make it more difficult for brand-name drug makers to keep cheaper generic drugs off the market.

October 2001: Expressed desire for generic ciprofloxacin

In October 2001, Chuck Schumer stated his desire for generic ciprofloxacin to be available for government use, believing the government had the authority to order its immediate production.

November 2001: Schumer Announces Hearings on Bush's Decision to Try Terrorists in Military Tribunals

In November 2001, Chuck Schumer announced hearings on George W. Bush's decision to try terrorists in military tribunals amid Washington concerns that Bush would skip the American legal system in handling such cases. Schumer stated the hearing's goals were to ascertain Bush's power to form a tribunal apart from Congress and whether a military tribunal was the most efficient instrument.

November 2001: Called for legislation on information sharing

In November 2001, Chuck Schumer joined Hillary Clinton in calling for legislation to encourage the FBI to share information on terrorism with local and state police.

2001: Became New York's Senior Senator

In 2001, Chuck Schumer became New York's senior senator upon Daniel Patrick Moynihan's retirement.

2001: The Holy Land Foundation was shut down

In 2001, The Holy Land Foundation, which Schumer sought to revoke its tax-exempt status, was shut down.

March 2002: Protecting amendment allowing signature verification for first-time voters

In March 2002, as the Senate worked on an election reform bill, Schumer and Senator Ron Wyden successfully protected an amendment allowing first-time voters to be verified with only a signature.

April 2002: Schumer Criticized Bush Administration's Middle East Policy

In April 2002, during a Senate speech, Schumer called the Bush administration's Middle East policy "muddled, confused and inconsistent". He stated that a planned meeting between Secretary of State Colin Powell and Yasser Arafat would contradict Bush's stand against terrorists.

July 2002: Senate passed generic drug bill

In July 2002, the Senate passed a bill sponsored by Chuck Schumer and John McCain that could lower the costs of generic drugs more rapidly available to U.S. consumers.

2002: Schumer authored provision on bankruptcy

In 2002, Chuck Schumer authored a provision to a bill intended to make it harder for people to erase their debts through bankruptcy. The measure faced opposition from anti-abortion activists and sparked controversy.

January 2004: Schumer opposes Pickering nomination

In January 2004, Chuck Schumer stated his intent to prevent the confirmation of Charles Pickering to the federal appeals court, arguing that the US could do better.

March 2004: Schumer Signs Letter Urging Protection for Whistleblower Richard Foster

In March 2004, Chuck Schumer, along with Jon Corzine, Ted Kennedy, and Frank Lautenberg, signed a letter to President George W. Bush urging him to instruct staff to avoid taking action against whistleblower Richard Foster, who spoke out on White House efforts to conceal higher cost estimates for the new Medicare prescription drug program.

August 2004: Schumer Expresses Concern Over Leak of Muhammad Naeem Noor Khan's Arrest

In August 2004, Chuck Schumer expressed concern over the decision by American officials to leak the arrest of Muhammad Naeem Noor Khan to reporters, citing the fact that the public had learned little of Khan's role in providing information that led to a higher terror alert level.

September 2004: Assault Weapons Ban Expiration

In September 2004, the Assault Weapons Ban, which banned semi-automatic rifles, shotguns, and handguns with certain features, expired despite attempts by Chuck Schumer to extend it.

2004: Reelected to the Senate

In 2004, Chuck Schumer was reelected to the Senate with 71% of the vote.

September 2005: Schumer questions Roberts's "compassion and humanity"

In September 2005, after President George W. Bush nominated John Roberts for Chief Justice of the United States, Chuck Schumer praised Roberts's brilliance and judicial philosophy, but questioned his "compassion and humanity" and the Bush administration's refusal to release documents Roberts wrote during his tenure as deputy solicitor general.

October 2005: Schumer predicted Harriet Miers "would not get a majority"

In October 2005, Chuck Schumer stated that Bush Supreme Court nominee Harriet Miers "would not get a majority either in the Judiciary Committee or the floor".

2005: Chaired Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee

In 2005, Chuck Schumer became chair of the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee.

March 2006: Amendment regarding Dubai Ports World and U.S. port operations

In March 2006, as the House Appropriations Committee voted to block an amendment allowing Dubai Ports World to operate some terminals at U.S. ports, Schumer introduced a similar amendment barring companies owned by countries recognizing the Taliban's regime in Afghanistan. Senate majority leader Bill Frist then asked for a quorum call, effectively halting proceedings. Schumer suggested that Republicans did not want a vote on the matter.

July 2006: Schumer Signed Letter Criticizing Al-Maliki's Response to Hezbollah

In July 2006, Schumer, along with Harry Reid and Dick Durbin, signed a letter to the Prime Minister of Iraq, Nouri al-Maliki, criticizing his failure to condemn Hezbollah's aggression and Israel's right to defend itself. They argued that this oversight raised serious concerns about Iraq's constructive role in resolving the crisis and bringing stability to the Middle East.

November 2006: Hentoff Criticized Schumer's Indifference to War on Constitution

In November 2006, Nat Hentoff of the Village Voice wrote that Schumer had been indifferent to the administration's war on the Constitution and on laws and treaties, particularly on the issue of torture.

2006: Democratic gains in the Senate

In 2006, Chuck Schumer oversaw Democratic gains in the Senate as chair of the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee.

2006: Criticism of the trade imbalance between the U.S. and China

In 2006, NPR reported that Schumer and Senator Lindsey Graham were highly critical of the trade imbalance between the U.S. and China, and its alleged cause of Chinese currency intervention.

March 11, 2007: Schumer Calls for Gonzales's Resignation

On March 11, 2007, Schumer became the first lawmaker to call for Attorney General Alberto Gonzales to resign for firing eight United States Attorneys, stating that Gonzales "doesn't accept or doesn't understand that he is no longer just the president's lawyer" during an interview on CBS News's Face the Nation.

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March 2007: Schumer Proposes Subprime Borrower Bailout

In March 2007, following the meltdown of the subprime mortgage industry, Schumer proposed a federal government bailout of subprime borrowers. He aimed to prevent homeowners from losing their residences and stabilize communities affected by foreclosures.

April 19, 2007: Schumer Repeats Call for Gonzales's Resignation During Testimony

On April 19, 2007, during Gonzales's testimony before the Senate Judiciary Committee, Schumer repeated his call for Gonzales to resign. Schumer stated that there was no point in further questioning because Gonzales had repeatedly answered 'I don't know' or 'I can't recall' about the firings of eight US attorneys.

2007: Vice Chair of the Democratic Caucus in the Senate

From 2007 to 2017, Chuck Schumer served as Vice Chair of the Democratic Caucus in the Senate.

2007: Publication of Positively American

In 2007, Chuck Schumer described his imaginary middle-class couple, Joe and Eileen Bailey, in his book "Positively American".

2007: Schumer supports Mukasey nomination

In 2007, Chuck Schumer expressed support for Michael Mukasey, Bush's nominee for Attorney General. Despite concerns about Mukasey's refusal to declare waterboarding illegal torture, Schumer voted to confirm him after Mukasey assured him he would enforce any law declaring it illegal.

June 3, 2008: Schumer's Wall Street Journal op-ed on Iran sanctions

On June 3, 2008, Chuck Schumer published an op-ed in the Wall Street Journal advocating for cooperative economic sanctions from the U.S., Britain, France, Germany, Russia, and China as a means to potentially topple Iran's government. He also discussed the importance of Russia's cooperation and criticized Putin's ambitions regarding Eastern Europe.

June 26, 2008: Schumer releases letters about IndyMac Bank

On June 26, 2008, Chuck Schumer publicly released letters he had written to regulators regarding IndyMac Bank, expressing concerns about its financial stability and potential risks to taxpayers and borrowers. He feared the regulatory community might not be prepared to prevent IndyMac's collapse.

October 18, 2008: Article suggests investment company prompted Schumer's letter

On October 18, 2008, The Wall Street Journal published an article suggesting that an investment company's interest in IndyMac might have prompted Schumer's letter regarding the bank's financial status.

December 14, 2008: Article in The New York Times about Schumer's free-market agenda

According to a December 14, 2008, article in The New York Times, Schumer embraced the free-market and deregulatory agenda more than any other Democrat in Congress, and supported measures blamed for the 2008 financial crisis. He took steps to protect the investment banking industry from government oversight and tougher rules and helped save financial institutions billions of dollars in taxes or fees. The article also claimed that Schumer succeeded in limiting efforts to reform and regulate credit-rating agencies.

December 22, 2008: OTS director removed; Limbaugh blames Schumer

On December 22, 2008, the OTS regional director in charge was removed for allowing IndyMac to falsify its financial reporting. Also on December 22, conservative commentator Rush Limbaugh blamed Schumer for IndyMac's bankruptcy, framing it as a planned 'October Surprise'.

2008: Democratic gains in the Senate

In 2008, Chuck Schumer oversaw Democratic gains in the Senate as chair of the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee.

2008: Field and Stream Magazine Honors Schumer

In 2008, Field and Stream magazine honored Chuck Schumer in its "Hero Awards" for his efforts in sponsoring legislation to provide millions in outdoor recreation grants to landowners who allow hunting and fishing on their private property.

2008: Drum Major Institute's Congressional Scorecard Grade

In 2008, Schumer received an "A" grade on the Drum Major Institute's Congressional Scorecard for his work on middle-class issues.

March 2009: Schumer Announces Support for Same-Sex Marriage

In March 2009, Schumer announced his support for same-sex marriage, stating that 'it was time'. He had previously supported civil unions.

March 22, 2009: Schumer backs full reversal of DOMA

On March 22, 2009, Schumer attended a private dinner with gay leaders and announced that he not only supported same-sex marriage, but he also backed a full reversal of DOMA (Defense of Marriage Act).

April 2009: Approval Rating

In April 2009, a SurveyUSA poll placed Chuck Schumer's approval rating at 62%, with 31% disapproving.

May 2009: Schumer calls Sotomayor a "mainstream justice"

In May 2009, Chuck Schumer told reporters that the confirmation process for Obama Supreme Court nominee Sonia Sotomayor would be "more of a test of the Republican Party than it is of Judge Sotomayor", calling Sotomayor a "mainstream justice".

October 2009: Advocating for scaling back American forces in Afghanistan

In October 2009, Schumer questioned the need for a large-scale military presence in Afghanistan, citing the high cost in lives and resources in Iraq. He advocated for scaling back American forces in Afghanistan and relying more on unmanned drone attacks.

December 2009: Schumer Votes for the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act

In December 2009, Chuck Schumer voted for the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act.

December 2009: Schumer Lobbies for Gay Marriage Legalization

In December 2009, when the New York State Senate took up a bill to legalize gay marriage, Schumer and other statewide officials aggressively lobbied wavering senators to support the legislation.

2009: End of term as chair of the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee

In 2009, Chuck Schumer concluded his term as chair of the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee.

2009: Schumer Proposes Standards for Government-Run Health Insurance

In 2009, Chuck Schumer proposed that any new government-run health insurance programs follow all the standards applicable to private insurance. He stated this was to "address fears that a public program would drive private insurers from the market" and that he wanted "a level playing field for competition".

2009: Championing College Tuition Tax Credits

In 2009, Schumer championed college tuition tax credits, advocating for and successfully passing a $4,000 tuition tax credit for students as part of the American Reinvestment and Recovery Act, which aimed to stimulate the economy through tax credits and cuts.

2009: Criticism of Scotland's release of Pan Am Flight 103 bomber

In 2009, Schumer criticized Scotland's decision to release Abdelbaset al-Megrahi, the convicted Pan Am Flight 103 bomber, and called for the United States to impose economic sanctions on the United Kingdom if Megrahi's release was connected to a massive oil deal between the UK and Libya.

2009: Devastating flood in Gowanda, New York

In 2009, a flash flood devastated the village of Gowanda, New York, causing two deaths and significant damage. Four feet of flood waters swept through the village, and caused much damage. Gowanda was declared both a state and federal disaster site.

2009: Urging investigation of Swine Flu products

In 2009, amid the swine flu scare, Schumer urged the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to investigate companies selling gloves, pills, and other products related to the flu. The FTC eventually put ten companies on notice and identified 140 scams.

March 2010: Claim that Schumer called SEC for information about Madoff investigation

In March 2010, Harry Markopolos, a Bernie Madoff whistleblower, released his book, No One Would Listen, which included an unsourced claim that Schumer called the SEC for information about the Madoff investigation. Schumer denied this claim.

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June 2010: Schumer Made Controversial Comments About Gaza Blockade

In June 2010, Schumer made controversial comments about Israel's blockade of the Gaza Strip, stating that Israel should "strangle them economically" while continuing to provide humanitarian aid. He also said that the Palestinian people don't believe in a Jewish state or the Torah.

2010: Schumer Denies Handgun Ownership

During his 2010 reelection campaign, Chuck Schumer denied owning a handgun or having a permit for one. He produced a letter from the NYPD stating that neither he nor his wife, Iris Weinshall, has a handgun license from NYC.

2010: Schumer Votes for Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act

In 2010, Chuck Schumer voted for the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act.

2010: Senate Reelected in 2010

In 2010, Chuck Schumer was reelected to the Senate with 66% of the vote.

2010: Schumer Likens Infosys Technologies to a "Chop Shop"

In 2010, while discussing an immigration bill on the Senate floor, Chuck Schumer likened the Indian tech giant Infosys Technologies to a "chop shop", which caused outrage in India. He later acknowledged that his characterization was incorrect.

2010: Securities and investment industry largest donor

Since 2010, the securities and investment industry has been the largest donor to Schumer's senatorial campaigns.

June 2011: Schumer Seeks Crackdown on Bitcoin

In June 2011, Schumer and Senator Joe Manchin sought a crackdown on Bitcoin, arguing that it facilitated illegal drug trade transactions.

2011: Chaired the Senate Democratic Policy Committee

From 2011 to 2017, Chuck Schumer chaired the Senate Democratic Policy Committee.

2011: Schumer's wife opposes bike path

In 2011, Chuck Schumer's wife, Iris Weinshall, opposed a new bicycle path in Park Slope, Brooklyn. It was reported that Schumer lobbied against the bike path behind the scenes.

January 18, 2012: Demonstration Against PROTECT IP Act

On January 18, 2012, the NY Tech Meetup and other cybertech organizations held a demonstration with 2,000 protesters in front of the offices of Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand to protest S. 968, the controversial PROTECT IP Act.

March 2012: Schumer Calls for Investigation of Facebook Password Requests

In March 2012, Schumer and Senator Richard Blumenthal called upon Attorney General Eric Holder and the Department of Justice to investigate practices by employers requiring Facebook passwords for job applicants and workers.

April 2012: Schumer Introduces SB 1070 to Counter Anti-Immigration Laws

In April 2012, Chuck Schumer introduced SB 1070, a bill aimed at overturning Arizona's anti-immigration law and similar laws if the Supreme Court ruled in favor of the states. He argued that states should not be able to create their own immigration laws and deploy untrained officers to arrest individuals based on preconceived profiles.

May 2013: Jessica Schumer Becomes Chief of Staff

In May 2013, Jessica Schumer, Chuck Schumer's daughter, became the chief of staff and general counsel of the Council of Economic Advisers.

June 2013: Senate Passes Immigration Bill Sponsored by Schumer

In June 2013, an immigration bill, sponsored by Chuck Schumer as one of the Gang of Eight, passed the Senate with a 68–32 vote. However, the House of Representatives refused to take up the bill, leading to its failure.

August 2013: Schumer criticizes Putin's behavior

In August 2013, Chuck Schumer criticized Vladimir Putin's behavior, comparing it to that of a "schoolyard bully" after Russia granted asylum to Edward Snowden. Schumer stated that the relationship between the United States and Russia was at its most strained point since the Cold War because of this.

October 2013: Support for proposal ending restrictions on shipping beer, wine, and spirits

In October 2013, Schumer announced his support for a proposal to end restrictions on shipping beer, wine, and spirits through the U.S. Postal Service, stating that it would help keep local post offices open by generating an estimated $225 million in new revenues for the USPS and would broaden the availability of beers and wines to consumers.

2013: Support for Death Penalty in Boston Marathon Case

In 2013, Schumer stated that the death penalty would be "appropriate" for Dzhokhar Tsarnaev, the perpetrator of the Boston Marathon bombing. He highlighted that federal law allows the death penalty, referencing the law he wrote in 1994.

April 2014: Support for the Paycheck Fairness Act

In April 2014, during the United States Senate debate on the Paycheck Fairness Act, Schumer backed the measure and highlighted the importance of pay equity for women, who make up 53 percent of the vote.

2014: Schumer Supported Israel in the 2014 Israel-Gaza Conflict

In 2014, Schumer supported Israel in the Israel-Gaza conflict.

2014: Recognition for helping Gowanda receive FEMA compensation

In 2014, Schumer was recognized for helping Gowanda, New York, secure $700,000 in compensation from FEMA due to the devastating flood that occurred there in 2009. The flood caused significant damage and two deaths, leading to Gowanda being declared a state and federal disaster site.

August 6, 2015: Schumer Announced Opposition to Iran Nuclear Deal

On August 6, 2015, Schumer announced his opposition to the nuclear deal with Iran. The White House leaked the news during the Republican debate in an attempt to limit coverage.

August 2015: Jessica Schumer leaves Council of Economic Advisers

In August 2015, Jessica Schumer, Chuck Schumer's daughter, left her position as the chief of staff and general counsel of the Council of Economic Advisers.

2015: Reid announced his retirement

In 2015, Harry Reid announced his retirement, widely expecting Chuck Schumer to lead Senate Democrats.

2015: Senate bill to tax multinational corporations

In 2015, the Charles Schumer-Rob Portman Senate bill proposed to tax the $2.2 trillion multinational corporations are holding outside the country in tax-haven subsidiaries, on which 35% was already owed, as a one-time tax at a rate significantly lower than the statutory corporate rate.

March 2016: Schumer calls for hearings on Merrick Garland nomination

In March 2016, after Obama nominated Merrick Garland to the Supreme Court, Chuck Schumer called for Mitch McConnell and Chuck Grassley to hold hearings so America could make its own judgment on Garland's suitability.

October 2016: Schumer lost confidence in Comey

In October 2016, Chuck Schumer stated that he lost confidence in FBI director James Comey after Comey announced the reopening of an investigation into Hillary Clinton's handling of classified emails.

November 2016: Schumer warns Trump on Supreme Court nominations

In November 2016, Chuck Schumer warned that Democrats would challenge President-elect Trump if he did not nominate mainstream Supreme Court justices, citing the Republicans' previous blockage of Merrick Garland's nomination.

November 2016: Elected Senate Minority Leader

In November 2016, Chuck Schumer was elected Senate Minority Leader.

November 2016: Schumer discusses relationship with Trump after election

In November 2016, following Trump's election, Schumer stated that he and Trump were not friends, having only had "civil conversations a couple of times" initiated by Trump. Earlier that year, Trump had expressed his belief that he would get along with Schumer and felt "close to Schumer in many ways".

December 2016: Schumer Demands Inquiry into Russian Meddling

In December 2016, Chuck Schumer called for a congressional inquiry into Russian meddling in U.S. affairs.

December 2016: Schumer Urges Senate Committee Formation on Cyber Threats

In December 2016, Chuck Schumer, along with John McCain, Lindsey Graham, and Jack Reed, sent a letter to Majority Leader McConnell urging the formation of a Senate select committee on cyber threats, with a focus on Russian meddling and potential threats from countries like China and Iran.

December 2016: Schumer calls on Trump cabinet nominees to release tax returns

In December 2016, Schumer urged Trump's cabinet nominees to release their tax returns, following the precedent set by Steve Mnuchin and Tom Price.

2016: Addressed Democratic losses after the election

After the 2016 election, Chuck Schumer attributed the Democrats' loss to a lack of a strong economic message and advocated for reforms in college affordability and trade laws.

2016: Controversial assertion before presidential election

Before the 2016 United States presidential election, Chuck Schumer stated that Democratic losses among blue-collar workers would be offset by gains among moderate Republicans, a statement that received both left-wing and conservative criticism.

2016: Reelected to the Senate in 2016

In 2016, Chuck Schumer was reelected to the Senate with 70% of the vote.

2016: Elected Democratic leader

In 2016, Chuck Schumer won his fourth term in the Senate and was then unanimously elected Democratic leader.

2016: Schumer claimed the Baileys either voted for Trump or abstained from voting

Since 2016, Chuck Schumer has claimed that the Baileys had either voted for Trump or abstained from voting for president.

January 2017: Schumer Responds to Intelligence Community Critics

In January 2017, Chuck Schumer responded to those questioning the U.S. intelligence community's assessments by saying, "Let me tell you, you take on the intelligence community, they have six ways from Sunday at getting back at you". Later that month, he introduced legislation to limit executive action on Russian sanctions.

February 2017: Schumer Called for Pressure on North Korea Through China

In February 2017, Schumer said that North Korea had proved itself to be "an irresponsible nation in every way" and advocated that the United States pressure China to curtail North Korea more seriously.

February 2017: Schumer predicts Trump's speech will be less memorable

In February 2017, before Trump's speech to a joint session of Congress, Schumer predicted that the speech would be less memorable than those of Trump's predecessors. He attributed this to "a yawning gap between what he says and what his administration actually does for working Americans", and criticized Trump for governing like a "pro-corporate, pro-elite, hard-right ideologue".

March 2017: Schumer calls on Trump to apologize for wiretapping claim

In March 2017, Schumer released a statement calling on Trump to apologize for claiming that the Obama administration had wiretapped him during his presidential campaign. He urged Trump to stop tweeting and focus on working for the United States, asserting that Trump had "severely damaged his credibility" by promoting conspiracy theories.

March 2017: Schumer opposes Gorsuch confirmation

In March 2017, at the end of Senate hearings for Trump Supreme Court nominee Neil Gorsuch, Chuck Schumer announced he would vote against the confirmation and called on Democrats to join him in blocking an up-or-down vote.

April 2017: Calling for caution in Afghanistan

In April 2017, Schumer called for caution in Afghanistan, referring to the casualties in Iraq, and stated that the military would need to seek congressional approval if they wanted more American soldiers in Afghanistan.

April 2017: Response to Shayrat missile strike

In April 2017, following the Shayrat missile strike, Schumer stated that a "pinpointed, limited action to punish and hopefully deter Assad from doing this again is appropriate" while cautioning against the United States becoming further involved in Syria.

May 2017: Schumer Responds to American Health Care Act

In May 2017, Chuck Schumer responded to an amendment to the American Health Care Act by saying that the amendment "leaves Americans with pre-existing conditions as vulnerable as they were before under this bill" and compared it to "administering cough medicine to someone with stage 4 cancer".

May 2017: Schumer questions Comey's firing and calls for investigation into Russian interference

In May 2017, Chuck Schumer told reporters that the FBI had been investigating the Trump campaign's possible collusion with Russia and questioned whether the investigation was "getting too close to home" for President Trump after Trump fired Comey. Schumer also called for an independent investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election.

May 2017: Schumer Co-Sponsored Israel Anti-Boycott Act

In May 2017, Schumer co-sponsored the Israel Anti-Boycott Act, Senate Bill 720, which would make it a federal crime for Americans to encourage or participate in boycotts against Israel and Israeli settlements.

May 2017: Schumer Calls for Release of Trump-Russia Meeting Transcripts

In a May 2017 Senate floor speech, Chuck Schumer called on the White House to release unedited transcripts of the meeting between Trump and Russian officials from the previous week, asserting that continued confidentiality would lead Americans to doubt the president's ability to handle the nation's secrets.

July 2017: Vote for Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act

In July 2017, Schumer voted for the Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act, which grouped together sanctions against Iran, Russia, and North Korea.

November 2017: Announced funding for Head Start programs

In November 2017, Chuck Schumer and Senator Kirsten Gillibrand announced $1,908,486 in funding for Head Start and Early Head Start programs at the Community Action Organization of Erie County.

November 2017: Schumer on net neutrality

In November 2017, Chuck Schumer stated that net neutrality would help build jobs in the 21st century and that repealing it would hurt the economy and middle-class workers.

2017: Led Senate Democratic Caucus

In 2017, Chuck Schumer became the leader of the Senate Democratic Caucus.

2017: End of term as Vice Chair of the Democratic Caucus in the Senate

In 2017, Chuck Schumer's term as Vice Chair of the Democratic Caucus in the Senate concluded.

2017: Schumer Called for U.S. Support for Kurdish Independence

In 2017, Schumer was the first senator to call for U.S. support for Kurdish independence after the Kurdistan Region independence referendum. He released a resolution calling for a change in U.S. policy to support a political process addressing the aspirations of the Kurds for an independent state.

2017: Schumer Advocated for Blocking China From Purchasing American Companies

In 2017, Schumer wrote to Trump advocating for a block on China to prevent it from purchasing more American companies. This was done to increase pressure on Beijing to help rein in North Korea's nuclear missile program.

January 2018: Schumer accuses Republicans of "delusional, self-serving paranoia" in regard to Mueller's investigation

In January 2018, Chuck Schumer accused Republicans of engaging in "delusional, self-serving paranoia" regarding their views on the FBI and Mueller's investigation. He also sent a letter with Nancy Pelosi calling for a bipartisan briefing on an FBI informant who contacted the Trump campaign.

January 2018: Schumer supports resolution overturning FCC vote on net neutrality

In January 2018, Chuck Schumer announced that all 49 members of the Democratic caucus supported a resolution overturning the FCC vote on net neutrality and urged Republicans to side with consumers and small business owners.

January 2018: Requested completion of veterans cemetery

In January 2018, Chuck Schumer requested that the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs complete final acquisitions for two parcels in Pembroke, New York, and initiate construction of the New Western New York National Veterans Cemetery.

January 2018: Schumer Offers Funding for Border Wall in Exchange for DACA Protection

In January 2018, Chuck Schumer stated that any DACA agreement before its March expiration would need to be included in the spending bill. Schumer offered Trump congressional approval of more than $20 billion for his border wall in exchange for protecting DACA recipients, but Trump declined the offer. A week later, conversations resumed between the White House and Schumer on immigration and border security.

February 2018: Schumer Signs Letter to Trump on Gun Background Checks

In February 2018, following the Stoneman Douglas High School shooting, Chuck Schumer was one of four Democratic senators to sign a letter to Trump asserting that endorsing legislation to require a background check on every gun purchase could move the country closer to a comprehensive system.

March 2018: Schumer Supports Legislation to Assist Children of Deceased First Responders

In March 2018, Chuck Schumer stated that the bipartisan legislation sponsored by Bob Casey and Pat Toomey would assist the children of deceased first responders afford college by increasing the availability of Pell grant funding.

March 2018: Schumer Claimed Settlements Unrelated to Israeli-Palestinian Conflict

In March 2018, Schumer told AIPAC's delegates that Israeli settlements in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem, have nothing to do with the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

March 2018: Schumer Urged Trump to Focus More on China

In March 2018, before the Trump administration took concrete measures against China, Schumer and other Democratic leaders pressed Trump to focus more on China, stating that China had stolen millions of jobs and trillions of dollars.

April 2018: Schumer backs effort to decriminalize cannabis

In April 2018, Chuck Schumer announced he would back efforts to decriminalize cannabis at the federal level.

May 2018: Schumer Criticized Kim Jong-un's Inclusion on Commemorative Coin

In May 2018, Schumer called for Kim Jong-un to be removed from the commemorative coin memorializing the 2018 North Korea–United States summit, calling Kim a "brutal dictator" and offered the Peace House as a more appropriate alternative.

May 2018: Schumer Praised Trump for Opening U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem

In May 2018, Schumer praised Trump for opening the U.S. embassy in Jerusalem, stating he had sponsored legislation to do so two decades prior.

May 2018: Schumer Observed Need for Tough Stance on China

In May 2018, after Trump signaled a willingness to ease sanctions on ZTE in a bid for a trade deal with Beijing, Schumer observed that Democrats and Republicans were coming together to tell the president to be tough on China and match his actions to his rhetoric.

June 2018: Schumer criticizes Roberts and the Supreme Court

In June 2018, Chuck Schumer criticized Chief Justice John Roberts and the Supreme Court, stating that Roberts was demeaning the court as it became more political. He cited the court's rulings in favor of anti-abortion clinics in California and other decisions that aligned the court with "the hard right".

June 2018: Schumer denounces Maxine Waters' call to harass Trump administration members

In June 2018, Schumer delivered a Senate floor speech criticizing Representative Maxine Waters's call to harass members of the Trump administration as protest of the administration's policies. Schumer stated that he disagreed with harassing political opponents and that citizens should organize and vote them out of office instead.

June 27, 2018: Schumer introduces Marijuana Freedom and Opportunity Act

On June 27, 2018, Chuck Schumer formally introduced the Marijuana Freedom and Opportunity Act.

July 2018: Schumer Spearheads Resolution Warning Trump on Russian Questioning

In July 2018, Chuck Schumer spearheaded a non-binding resolution, which passed 98-0, warning President Trump against allowing the Russian government to question U.S. diplomats and other officials. The resolution stated that the U.S. should refuse to make available any current or former U.S. personnel for questioning by Vladimir Putin's government.

July 2018: Schumer Confronts Warner on Facebook Issues

In July 2018, Schumer confronted Senator Mark Warner and urged him to address problems with right-wing disinformation, election interference, consumer privacy, and other issues related to Facebook.

July 2018: Joint statement condemning Trump's comments on Germany and Russia

In July 2018, after Trump criticized Germany's decision to approve a new Russian-German gas pipeline, Schumer and House Minority Leader Pelosi released a joint statement condemning Trump's comments as an embarrassment and his behavior as "another profoundly disturbing signal that the President is more loyal to President Putin than to our NATO allies".

July 2018: Schumer calls for Kavanaugh to answer questions about Roe v. Wade

In July 2018, after Trump nominated Brett Kavanaugh to the Supreme Court, Chuck Schumer said Kavanaugh should be asked direct questions about the precedent set by Roe v. Wade and other cases. He also expressed concern about Kavanaugh's views on United States v. Nixon.

July 2018: Schumer advocated for Trump to nominate Garland

In July 2018, it was reported that Chuck Schumer had advocated for President Trump to nominate Merrick Garland to the Supreme Court as a way to attract bipartisan support.

August 2018: Schumer Announces Senate Passage of Funding for Firefighter Cancer Registry

In August 2018, Chuck Schumer announced that the Senate had passed $1 million in FY2019 funding for the national firefighter cancer registry as an amendment to the upcoming FY2019 Health and Human Services minibus appropriations bill. He emphasized the need for "first-rate medical care and treatment" for firefighters and the registry's role in helping researchers track, treat, and prevent cancer in firefighters.

August 2018: Schumer responds to Trump's "disloyal" remark about Jewish Democrats

In August 2018, Schumer responded to Trump's accusation that American Jews who vote for Democrats are "disloyal". Schumer tweeted that when Trump uses a trope that has been used against the Jewish people for centuries, he encourages anti-Semitism throughout the country and world.

2018: Schumer Becomes Grandfather

In 2018, Jessica Schumer gave birth to a son, making Chuck Schumer a grandfather.

2018: Schumer concerned about Roe v. Wade

In 2018, after Supreme Court Justice Anthony Kennedy retired, Chuck Schumer voiced concern that Trump's choice of replacement would try to overturn Roe v. Wade.

2018: Kavanaugh's confirmation hearings.

In 2018, during Kavanaugh's confirmation hearings Schumer made the comment "unleashed a whirlwind".

January 2019: Schumer Introduces Background Check Expansion Act

In January 2019, Chuck Schumer was among 40 senators who introduced the Background Check Expansion Act, which would mandate background checks for the sale or transfer of all firearms, including those from unlicensed sellers.

March 2019: Schumer signs letter regarding dairy farmers

In March 2019, Chuck Schumer was among 38 senators to sign a letter to the U.S. secretary of agriculture, warning of market instability facing dairy farmers and urging the department to encourage farmers to consider the Dairy Margin Coverage program.

March 2020: Schumer criticized for comments about Gorsuch and Kavanaugh

In March 2020, Chuck Schumer faced criticism for statements made about Supreme Court justices Neil Gorsuch and Brett Kavanaugh at a rally outside the Capitol. His comments were interpreted as inciting violence and were condemned by both Republicans and Democrats, leading to an apology from Schumer.

October 2020: Call to suspend U.S. military aid to Azerbaijan

In October 2020, Schumer called on the Trump administration to immediately suspend U.S. military aid to Azerbaijan, which was being sent through the Pentagon's "building partner assistance program". The aid raised concerns due to the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict between Azerbaijan and Armenia.

November 2020: New stance on eliminating student debt

In November 2020, Schumer announced a new stance on eliminating student debt, stating, "I have a proposal with Elizabeth Warren that the first $50,000 of debt be vanquished, and we believe that Joe Biden can do that with the pen as opposed to legislation".

2020: 2020-21 election runoff and special election runoff

Following the 2020–21 election runoff and special election runoff, Democrats gained control of the Senate.

2020: Bomb threats mentioned rigged 2020 election

In December 2025, Chuck Schumer's offices were targeted by bomb threats that said that "the 2020 election was rigged".

January 6, 2021: Attack on the U.S. Capitol

On January 6, 2021, while participating in the certification of the 2021 United States Electoral College vote count, Schumer was present when Trump supporters attacked the U.S. Capitol. He and other members of Congress were evacuated. Schumer and Pelosi released a joint statement calling on Trump to demand the rioters leave the Capitol and its grounds immediately. After the Capitol was secured, Schumer gave remarks, calling it a day "that will live forever in infamy" and blamed Trump for the attack. He also called on Vice President Mike Pence to invoke the Twenty-fifth Amendment and said he would support impeachment.

January 2021: Became Senate Majority Leader

In January 2021, Chuck Schumer became the Senate Majority Leader, the first Jewish Senate leader in U.S. history.

January 20, 2021: Democrats gained control of the Senate

On January 20, 2021, with the swearing-in of new Georgia senators, Democrats gained control of the Senate and Chuck Schumer became the Senate majority leader.

July 14, 2021: Schumer releases Cannabis Administration and Opportunity Act for public comment

On July 14, 2021, Chuck Schumer, along with senators Ron Wyden and Cory Booker, released for public comment a comprehensive federal legalization bill known as the Cannabis Administration and Opportunity Act.

2021: Served as Senate Majority Leader

From 2021 to 2025, Chuck Schumer served as the Senate Majority Leader.

July 21, 2022: Schumer introduces Cannabis Administration and Opportunity Act

On July 21, 2022, Chuck Schumer formally introduced the Cannabis Administration and Opportunity Act.

2022: Elected to fifth term

In 2022, Chuck Schumer was elected to a fifth term, surpassing Moynihan and Javits as the longest-serving U.S. senator from New York.

2022: Reelected to the Senate in 2022

In 2022, Chuck Schumer was reelected to the Senate with 56% of the vote.

2022: Oversaw passage of Inflation Reduction Act

In 2022, as Senate Majority Leader, Chuck Schumer shepherded the Inflation Reduction Act through the Senate.

October 2023: Schumer Led Bipartisan Delegation Visit to China

In October 2023, Schumer led a bipartisan congressional delegation's visit to China, meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping. Schumer stated that America wants fairness and stability and a level playing field for American businesses and workers.

November 21, 2023: Schumer's Broadway Debut

On November 21, 2023, Chuck Schumer made his Broadway debut in a one-night performance as the Producer in Gutenberg! The Musical!.

March 14, 2024: Schumer Called Netanyahu an Impediment to Peace

On March 14, 2024, Schumer stated in a Senate speech that Israeli prime minister Netanyahu was an impediment to peace in the Middle East and called for elections to replace him when the Gaza war abated.

2024: Senate Vote on Aid Package to Israel

In 2024, during a Senate vote on the largest aid package to Israel in history, only three Democrats opposed it, including Bernie Sanders, which Schumer pointed out as a sign that his Democratic caucus remains "overwhelmingly pro-Israel".

February 2025: DOJ launches investigation.

In February 2025, interim U.S. Attorney for Washington D.C. Ed Martin announced the Department of Justice was launching an investigation into the matter.

March 12, 2025: Announced opposition to continuing resolution

On March 12, 2025, Chuck Schumer announced his opposition to the House-passed continuing resolution (CR) to fund the 2025 United States federal budget until September 30, 2025.

March 2025: Schumer Discussed Keeping the Left Pro-Israel

In a March 2025 interview with Bret Stephens, Schumer stated, "My job is to keep the left pro-Israel." He warned of a "pincer" movement of antisemitism emerging from both the extreme left and the extreme right and compared the situation to France during the Dreyfus affair and Germany in the leadup to the Third Reich.

April 27, 2025: Criticism of Trump's plan to end the Russo-Ukrainian war

On April 27, 2025, Schumer strongly criticized Trump's 28-point plan to end the Russo-Ukrainian war, saying the plan was completely in Putin's favor and that it meant surrender for Ukraine. He also affirmed his support for the Ukrainian people until Ukraine won.

September 30, 2025: House-passed continuing resolution (CR) deadline

Chuck Schumer announced his opposition to the House-passed continuing resolution (CR) to fund the 2025 United States federal budget until September 30, 2025.

December 2025: Offices targeted by bomb threats

In December 2025, Chuck Schumer's offices in New York City, Long Island, Rochester, and Binghamton were the targets of multiple bomb threats sent in emails with the subject line "MAGA".

2025: Began second stint as Senate minority leader

In 2025, Chuck Schumer began his second stint as Senate Minority Leader.

2025: Schumer Did Not Endorse Zohran Mamdani

In 2025, Schumer did not endorse Zohran Mamdani, the Democratic nominee in the New York City mayoral election, citing his criticism of Israel.

2025: John Oliver mocked the Baileys

In 2025, a segment on Last Week Tonight with John Oliver mocked Chuck Schumer's imaginary middle-class couple, Joe and Eileen Bailey, and criticized Schumer for using them as guidance.

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February 1, 2026: Schumer Addressed Jewish Leaders, Pledged Support to Israel

On February 1, 2026, Schumer addressed a gathering of Jewish leaders in New York City, pledging to always fight to give Israel what it needs to protect itself and stating that he has delivered more security assistance to Israel under his leadership than ever before.

April 2026: Schumer Opposed Resolutions to Block Arms Sales to Israel

In April 2026, Schumer was one of seven Democratic senators to join all Republicans in opposing a pair of resolutions that would have blocked sales of bulldozers and 1,000-pound bombs to Israel.