Early Life and Education of Chuck Schumer: A Complete Timeline
How education and upbringing influenced the life of Chuck Schumer. A timeline of key moments.
Chuck Schumer is a prominent American politician serving as the senior U.S. Senator from New York since 1999. A Democrat, he has held significant leadership roles in the Senate, including Senate Majority Leader (2021-2025) and Senate Minority Leader in two stints (2017-2021 and since 2025). He became New York's senior senator in 2001. Elected to a fifth term in 2022, Schumer has become the longest-serving U.S. Senator from New York, surpassing Daniel Patrick Moynihan and Jacob K. Javits.
November 23, 1950: Chuck Schumer Born
On November 23, 1950, Charles Ellis Schumer was born. He is now the senior United States senator from New York.
1967: Graduated from James Madison High School
In 1967, Chuck Schumer graduated as the valedictorian of James Madison High School, after scoring 1600 on the SAT.
1968: Volunteered on Eugene McCarthy's Presidential Campaign
In 1968, Chuck Schumer volunteered 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.
September 21, 1980: Marriage to Iris Weinshall
On September 21, 1980, Chuck Schumer married Iris Weinshall at Windows on the World in the World Trade Center.
September 2005: Commented on John Roberts Nomination
In September 2005, Chuck Schumer commented on John Roberts nomination for Chief Justice of the United States.
October 2005: Commented on Harriet Miers Nomination
In October 2005, Schumer commented that Bush Supreme Court nominee Harriet Miers would not get a majority and that her confirmation hearings would cause her to gather support or opposition.
2009: Gowanda Flood Disaster
In 2009, a flash flood devastated Gowanda, New York, causing two deaths, extensive damage, and resulting in the area being declared a state and federal disaster site.
2010: Schumer Denies Owning Handgun
During his 2010 reelection campaign, Chuck Schumer stated that he did not own a handgun or have a permit for one, clarifying his position on gun ownership.
2011: Bicycle Path Controversy
In 2011, Chuck Schumer was reported to have joined neighbors in Park Slope in attempting to remove a new bicycle path on their street. While Schumer has not taken a public stance, his wife is a prominent opponent, and he has reportedly lobbied against it.
2015: Reid announced retirement
In 2015, Harry Reid announced his retirement.
2018: Became a Grandfather
In 2018, Chuck Schumer became a grandfather when his daughter, Jessica, gave birth to a son.
2025: Buffalo Bills AFC East Championship
In 2025, after the Buffalo Bills won the AFC East championship game, Chuck Schumer expressed his support for the team on the Senate floor.
