History of Chuck Schumer in Timeline
Charles Ellis Schumer is a prominent American politician who has served as the Senate Majority Leader since 2021. He is the senior United States senator from New York, a position he has held since 1999. A member of the Democratic Party, Schumer has led the Senate Democratic Caucus since 2017. His tenure in the Senate spans five terms, making him the longest-serving US senator from New York. He is also the dean of New York's congressional delegation.
November 23, 1950: Birth of Chuck Schumer
Chuck Schumer was born on November 23, 1950.
1967: Chuck Schumer Graduates High School
Chuck Schumer graduated as valedictorian from James Madison High School in 1967.
1968: Chuck Schumer Volunteers on Eugene McCarthy's Presidential Campaign
Chuck Schumer volunteered on Eugene McCarthy's presidential campaign in 1968, leading him to switch his major to social studies.
1971: Chuck Schumer Graduates Harvard College
In 1971, Chuck Schumer graduated magna cum laude and Phi Beta Kappa from Harvard College.
1974: Chuck Schumer Graduates Harvard Law School
Chuck Schumer graduated with honors from Harvard Law School in 1974.
1974: Chuck Schumer Elected to the New York State Assembly
Chuck Schumer was elected to the New York State Assembly in 1974.
1975: Chuck Schumer's Early Political Career
Chuck Schumer began his political career serving three terms in the New York State Assembly from 1975 to 1980.
1975: Chuck Schumer Passes the New York State Bar Exam
Chuck Schumer passed the New York state bar in early 1975.
1975: Start of Chuck Schumer's Tenure in the New York State Assembly
In 1975, Chuck Schumer began serving in the New York State Assembly.
September 21, 1980: Marriage to Iris Weinshall
On September 21, 1980, Chuck Schumer married Iris Weinshall at Windows on the World atop the north tower of the World Trade Center. Weinshall served as New York City's commissioner of transportation from 2000 to 2007. Schumer and Weinshall reside in Park Slope near Grand Army Plaza.
1980: Chuck Schumer Runs for Elizabeth Holtzman's Vacated House Seat
Chuck Schumer ran for Elizabeth Holtzman's vacated House seat in 1980 and won.
1980: Chuck Schumer's Move to the US House of Representatives
Chuck Schumer was elected to the US House of Representatives in 1980.
1981: Start of Chuck Schumer's Tenure in the US House of Representatives
In 1981, Chuck Schumer started his tenure in the US House of Representatives, representing New York's 16th Congressional District.
1981: End of Chuck Schumer's Tenure in the New York State Assembly
Chuck Schumer's tenure in the New York State Assembly ended in 1981.
1981: Chuck Schumer Starts Representing the 16th District
Chuck Schumer began representing the 16th district in 1981.
1982: Chuck Schumer's Potential Matchup with Stephen Solarz
In 1982, Chuck Schumer faced a potential matchup with Stephen Solarz due to redistricting.
1983: Chuck Schumer Starts Representing the 10th District
Chuck Schumer began representing the 10th district in 1983.
1983: Redistricting for Chuck Schumer
In 1983, Chuck Schumer was redistricted to New York's 10th Congressional District.
1987: Opposed Repeal of Glass-Steagall Act
In 1987, then-Representative Schumer penned a New York Times op-ed titled "Don't Let Banks Become Casinos" arguing against the repeal of the 1933 Glass-Steagall Act.
March 11, 1993: Chuck Schumer Introduces The Religious Freedom Restoration Act
Chuck Schumer introduced The Religious Freedom Restoration Act on March 11, 1993.
1993: Chuck Schumer Starts Representing the 9th District
Chuck Schumer began representing the 9th district in 1993.
1994: Schumer Joins Campaign to Revoke Tax-Exempt Status of Holy Land Foundation
In 1994, Schumer joined a campaign alongside the Anti-Defamation League and the American Jewish Congress. Their goal was to pressure the IRS to revoke the tax-exempt status of the Holy Land Foundation, a Palestinian-American charity. This charity was the largest Muslim charity in the country at the time it was shut down in 2001.
1994: Authorship of the Assault Weapons Ban
In 1994, then-Representative Schumer, in collaboration with Senator Dianne Feinstein, authored the Assault Weapons Ban. Schumer is widely recognized for his contributions to the passage of both the Assault Weapons Ban and the Brady Handgun Violence Prevention Act, playing a pivotal role in advancing gun control legislation.
1994: Authored Federal Death Penalty Law
In 1994, while serving as the head of the House crime subcommittee, Schumer wrote the federal law that allows for the death penalty.
1995: Jerusalem Embassy Act of 1995
The Jerusalem Embassy Act of 1995 was a significant piece of legislation related to the U.S. position on Jerusalem.
1995: Chuck Schumer Oversees Waco Siege Hearings
In 1995, Chuck Schumer was one of four members of Congress to oversee the House investigation of the Waco siege hearings.
1995: Schumer Sponsors Omnibus Counterterrorism Act
In 1995, Schumer sponsored the Omnibus Counterterrorism Act of 1995 (H.R. 896) in the House of Representatives. This legislative initiative reflected Schumer's commitment to strengthening counterterrorism measures and national security.
1996: Defense of Marriage Act Vote
Schumer voted in favor of the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) in 1996, a law that defined marriage as a union between a man and a woman.
December 1998: Schumer votes against impeachment charges of President Clinton in the House
In December 1998, during a lame-duck session of Congress, Schumer, as a member of the House of Representatives and Judiciary Committee, voted against all impeachment charges against President Bill Clinton.
1998: Chuck Schumer Elected to the Senate
In 1998, Chuck Schumer was elected to the Senate, defeating incumbent Al D'Amato.
1998: Chuck Schumer Wins Democratic Primary and General Election for Senate
In 1998, Chuck Schumer won the Democratic Primary and the general election for Senate.
January 1999: Schumer votes against impeachment charges of President Clinton in the Senate
In January 1999, newly elected to the Senate, Schumer again voted "not guilty" on both impeachment charges against President Bill Clinton, maintaining his stance from the House vote.
1999: Chuck Schumer becomes Senior US Senator from New York
Chuck Schumer became the Senior US Senator from New York in 1999.
1999: End of Chuck Schumer's Tenure in the US House of Representatives
In 1999, Chuck Schumer's time in the US House of Representatives came to an end.
1999: Supported Repeal of Glass-Steagall Act
In 1999, Schumer reversed his stance and supported Congress's repeal of the Glass-Steagall Act. He justified this change by stating that it was crucial to ensuring the competitiveness of U.S. financial firms in the global market.
2000: Iris Weinshall's Role as Commissioner of Transportation
Iris Weinshall, Chuck Schumer's wife, served as New York City's commissioner of transportation from 2000 to 2007.
May 2001: Schumer and McCain Introduce Legislation to Lower Drug Costs
In May 2001, Senators Schumer and John McCain introduced legislation aimed at increasing the availability of cheaper generic drugs by making it more difficult for brand-name drug manufacturers to block them. The legislation was supported by consumer groups and projected to significantly reduce prescription drug costs.
October 2001: Schumer Calls for Availability of Generic Ciprofloxacin
In October 2001, during a press conference, Senator Schumer expressed his desire for generic ciprofloxacin to be made available for government use, as Bayer held exclusive patent rights to the brand-name Cipro. Schumer believed the federal government had the authority to order production of a generic version to bolster the national stockpile.
November 2001: Schumer and Clinton Advocate for Enhanced Information Sharing between FBI and Local Law Enforcement
In November 2001, Senator Schumer joined Senator Hillary Clinton in calling for legislation to improve the sharing of terrorism-related information between the FBI and local and state police. They cited concerns from New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani that federal authorities were not adequately sharing information with city police. Schumer and Senator Patrick Leahy reported that the Justice Department supported the proposed legislation.
November 2001: Schumer Announces Hearings on Military Tribunals for Terrorists
In November 2001, amidst concerns about President George W. Bush's decision to try terrorists in military tribunals, potentially bypassing the American legal system, Schumer announced hearings on the matter. The hearings aimed to determine whether Bush had the authority to establish such tribunals without Congressional involvement and whether they were the most effective approach.
2001: Holy Land Foundation Shut Down
In 2001, the Holy Land Foundation, a Palestinian-American charity targeted by Schumer and others, was shut down.
March 2002: Led Effort to Protect First-Time Voter Verification Amendment
In March 2002, amidst Senate negotiations on an election reform bill facing Republican opposition due to concerns about its effectiveness against voter fraud, Schumer, along with Senator Ron Wyden, successfully preserved an amendment that allowed first-time voters to be verified using only their signature.
April 2002: Schumer Criticizes Bush Administration's Middle East Policy
In April 2002, during a Senate address, Schumer characterized the Bush administration's approach to the Middle East as "muddled, confused and inconsistent." He argued that the planned meeting between Secretary of State Colin Powell and Yasser Arafat contradicted President Bush's stated opposition to engaging with terrorists and those who harbor them.
July 2002: Senate Passes Schumer-McCain Bill to Lower Generic Drug Costs
In July 2002, the Senate passed a bill sponsored by Senators Schumer and McCain that aimed to expedite the availability of generic drugs to consumers, leading to significant cost savings. The bill also sought to prevent brand-name drug makers from filing frivolous lawsuits against generic drug manufacturers. While an identical bill was introduced in the House, it did not pass.
2002: Schumer's provision on bankruptcy sparks debate
In 2002, a provision authored by Schumer aimed at curbing bankruptcy abuse faced opposition from anti-abortion groups. They argued that the measure would hinder their ability to write off court fines. Schumer defended the provision as a compromise, asserting its misinterpretation by opponents.
January 2004: Schumer opposes Charles Pickering's renomination
In January 2004, Schumer opposed President Bush's renomination of Charles Pickering to the federal appeals court. He expressed his intention to block Pickering's confirmation, believing that the US deserved a better candidate.
March 2004: Schumer Advocates for Whistleblower Protection
In March 2004, Schumer, alongside Jon Corzine, Ted Kennedy, and Frank Lautenberg, urged President Bush in a letter to prevent any actions against whistleblower Richard Foster. Foster had spoken out regarding White House attempts to conceal higher cost estimates for the Medicare prescription drug program from Congress.
August 2004: Schumer Raises Concerns over Leak of Terror Suspect's Arrest
In August 2004, following the leak of Muhammad Naeem Noor Khan's arrest to reporters by American officials, Schumer expressed concerns. He questioned the decision to reveal Khan's identity, emphasizing the lack of public information about Khan's role in providing intelligence that led to heightened terror alert levels.
September 2004: Expiration of Assault Weapons Ban
In September 2004, the Assault Weapons Ban, which Schumer co-authored with Senator Dianne Feinstein in 1994, expired. The ban prohibited semi-automatic rifles, shotguns, and handguns with certain features. Schumer attempted to extend the ban but was unsuccessful.
2004: Opposition to Federal Marriage Amendment
In 2004, Schumer opposed the Federal Marriage Amendment, arguing that DOMA already addressed the issue of same-sex marriage.
2004: Chuck Schumer Re-elected to the Senate
In 2004, Chuck Schumer was re-elected to the Senate, defeating Howard Mills and Marilyn F. O'Grady.
2004: Chuck Schumer Wins Re-election with Significant Margin
Chuck Schumer was re-elected in 2004, defeating Howard Mills by a significant margin and winning every county except Hamilton County.
September 2005: Schumer Expresses Mixed Views on Chief Justice Nominee John Roberts
During the Senate Judiciary Committee's confirmation hearings for Chief Justice nominee John Roberts in September 2005, Senator Schumer acknowledged Roberts's intellect and legal expertise but questioned his compassion and humanity. Schumer criticized the Bush administration's refusal to release certain documents related to Roberts's work as deputy solicitor general, as well as Roberts's refusal to answer some of the committee's questions.
October 2005: Schumer Predicts Challenges for Supreme Court Nominee Harriet Miers
In October 2005, Senator Schumer predicted that Supreme Court nominee Harriet Miers would face difficulty securing confirmation, stating she would not receive a majority vote in the Senate Judiciary Committee or on the Senate floor. He believed Miers's confirmation hearings would generate significant scrutiny and potentially polarize opinions in a way not seen with recent nominees.
2005: Chuck Schumer Becomes Chair of the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee
Chuck Schumer took over as chair of the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee in 2005.
March 2006: Schumer Introduces Amendment Regarding Dubai Ports World
In March 2006, the House Appropriations Committee decided to prevent Dubai Ports World from operating certain US port terminals. Schumer introduced a Senate amendment that would prohibit companies owned by nations recognizing the Taliban regime in Afghanistan from operating at US ports. This amendment was presented as a parallel to the House measure. When Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist called for a quorum, effectively stalling the process, Schumer expressed his belief that the Republicans were attempting to avoid a vote altogether.
July 2006: Schumer Criticizes Iraqi Prime Minister al-Maliki's Response to Conflict
In July 2006, following Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki's statement urging the international community to intervene in the conflict between Israel and Lebanon, Schumer, along with Senators Harry Reid and Dick Durbin, sent a letter to al-Maliki. In this letter, they criticized his failure to condemn Hezbollah's aggression while also acknowledging Israel's right to self-defense. They expressed concern that al-Maliki's stance raised doubts about Iraq's ability to contribute constructively to regional stability.
November 2006: Schumer's Stance on Bush Administration's Policies Criticized
In November 2006, Village Voice columnist Nat Hentoff criticized Schumer for what he perceived as indifference towards the Bush administration's policies that Hentoff viewed as detrimental to the Constitution, laws, and treaties. This criticism specifically focused on the issue of torture.
2006: Schumer and Graham Criticize US-China Trade Imbalance
During 2006, NPR reported that Schumer and Senator Lindsey Graham expressed strong criticism regarding the trade imbalance between the United States and China. They attributed this imbalance to alleged currency manipulation by the Chinese government.
2006: Democratic Gains in the Senate
In 2006, Democrats made gains in the Senate under the leadership of Chuck Schumer.
2006: Strategies from 2006 Midterm Elections
The book 'Positively American: Winning Back the Middle-Class Majority One Family at a Time,' published by Chuck Schumer in January 2007, drew from his experience helping the Democratic Party win in the 2006 midterm elections.
January 2007: Publication of 'Positively American'
In January 2007, Chuck Schumer published a book titled 'Positively American: Winning Back the Middle-Class Majority One Family at a Time.' The book outlines strategies for Democrats to court middle-class voters, drawing from Schumer's experience in the 2006 midterm elections.
March 11, 2007: Call for Attorney General Gonzales to Resign
On March 11, 2007, Chuck Schumer became the first lawmaker in either chamber to call for Attorney General Alberto Gonzales to resign for firing eight United States Attorneys. Schumer stated that Gonzales did not understand his role as more than just the president's lawyer.
March 2007: Response to Subprime Mortgage Crisis
Following the subprime mortgage industry meltdown in March 2007, Schumer advocated for a federal bailout of struggling borrowers to prevent foreclosures and stabilize communities. He also called for the establishment of mortgage industry regulators and the relocation of the Securities and Exchange Commission to New York for closer oversight of the financial industry.
April 19, 2007: Call for Gonzales's Resignation During Testimony
On April 19, 2007, Chuck Schumer was angered during Attorney General Alberto Gonzales's testimony, in which Gonzales repeatedly said he did not know or could not recall details about the controversy of firing eight U.S. Attorneys. Schumer used his time to reiterate his call for Gonzales to resign, arguing that Gonzales had not provided a convincing explanation for the firings.
September 2007: Proposed Increase in Conforming Loan Limits
In September 2007, Schumer proposed raising the limits on conforming loans backed by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. This move aimed to allow these government-sponsored enterprises to support mortgages on higher-priced homes.
2007: IndyMac Bank Failure
In 2007, IndyMac Bank faced a financial crisis due to its risky lending practices and the collapse of the housing market. A Treasury Department audit later determined that the bank's failure was primarily caused by its business strategy and unsafe operations. Schumer's public warnings about IndyMac's financial instability contributed to a run on the bank, exacerbating its liquidity issues.
2007: End of Iris Weinshall's Role as Commissioner
Iris Weinshall's tenure as New York City's commissioner of transportation ended in 2007.
2007: Schumer supports Michael Mukasey's nomination for Attorney General
In 2007, Schumer supported the nomination of Michael Mukasey as Attorney General, despite concerns over Mukasey's stance on waterboarding. Schumer stated that Mukasey had assured him in private that he would enforce any laws prohibiting waterboarding.
2007: Chuck Schumer Becomes Vice Chair of the Democratic Caucus
Chuck Schumer became the Vice Chair of the Democratic Caucus in 2007.
June 3, 2008: Schumer Proposes Cooperative Economic Sanctions Against Iran
In a June 3, 2008, Wall Street Journal op-ed, Schumer put forward the idea of coordinated economic sanctions by the U.S., Britain, France, Germany, Russia, and China to destabilize Iran's theocratic government. He stressed the importance of Russia's participation, analyzing Putin's motivations and the potential leverage points in the relationship between Russia, Eastern Europe, and NATO.
June 26, 2008: IndyMac Bank Concerns
On June 26, 2008, Schumer publicly released letters expressing concerns about the financial stability of IndyMac Bank. He warned about risks to taxpayers and borrowers, suggesting that regulators might not be prepared to prevent the bank's collapse. This action contributed to a run on the bank by depositors.
October 18, 2008: Schumer's IndyMac Letter Scrutinized
On October 18, 2008, The Wall Street Journal published an article suggesting Schumer's letter about IndyMac Bank may have been influenced by an investment company's interest in the bank. Schumer's ties to OneWest Bank founders raised concerns.
December 14, 2008: Scrutinized for Role in Wall Street Meltdown
On December 14, 2008, The New York Times published an article analyzing Schumer's role in the Wall Street meltdown. The article argued that Schumer had been more supportive of the financial industry's deregulatory agenda than any other Democrat in Congress, endorsing measures that were later blamed for contributing to the financial crisis. It highlighted his efforts to shield the industry from government oversight and tougher regulations, as well as his role in securing billions of dollars in tax and fee reductions for financial institutions over time. The article also claimed that Schumer played a part in hindering attempts by the George W. Bush administration and the SEC to reform and regulate credit-rating agencies.
December 22, 2008: IndyMac Failure Fallout
On December 22, 2008, The Washington Post revealed that a regulatory official had been removed for allowing IndyMac to falsify financial reports. Conservative commentator Rush Limbaugh blamed Schumer for the bank's failure and alleged a political motive.
2008: Received "A" Grade on Congressional Scorecard
In 2008, Schumer received an "A" grade from the Drum Major Institute for his work on issues affecting the middle class, as reflected in their Congressional Scorecard.
2008: Schumer Honored by Field and Stream Magazine
In 2008, Field and Stream magazine bestowed its "Hero Awards" upon Schumer for his support of hunters. Notably, he sponsored legislation providing millions in outdoor recreation grants to landowners who permit hunting and fishing on their private property.
2008: Democratic Gains in the Senate
In 2008, Democrats made gains in the Senate under the leadership of Chuck Schumer.
March 2009: Support for Same-Sex Marriage
In March 2009, Schumer publicly announced his support for same-sex marriage, stating that the time for it had come. Previously, he supported civil unions.
March 22, 2009: Full Reversal of DOMA
On March 22, 2009, during a private dinner with gay leaders, Schumer expressed his support for both same-sex marriage and a complete reversal of DOMA.
April 2009: Chuck Schumer's Approval Rating at 62%
A SurveyUSA poll in April 2009 showed Chuck Schumer's approval rating at 62%.
May 2009: Schumer Characterizes Sotomayor Confirmation as a Test for Republicans
In May 2009, Senator Schumer asserted that the confirmation process for Supreme Court nominee Sonia Sotomayor would be more of a test for the Republican Party than for Sotomayor herself. He described Sotomayor as a "mainstream justice" and believed Republicans had no legitimate basis for opposing her nomination.
October 2009: Schumer Questions Continued US Involvement in Afghanistan
In October 2009, Schumer publicly questioned the ongoing US involvement in Afghanistan, highlighting the costs in terms of lives and financial resources. He suggested that the US could potentially maintain its security without necessarily bringing stability to Afghanistan. He advocated for a reduction in American troops and greater reliance on drone strikes.
December 2009: Advocacy for Gay Marriage in New York
In December 2009, Schumer actively lobbied senators in New York State to support a bill legalizing gay marriage.
December 2009: Schumer Supports Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act
Schumer demonstrated his support for President Obama's health reform legislation by voting for the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act in December 2009.
2009: Chuck Schumer's Tenure as Chair of the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee Comes to an End
In 2009, Chuck Schumer's time as the Chair of the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee ended.
2009: Schumer takes action against scams during swine flu scare
In 2009, Schumer urged the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to investigate companies selling misleading products during the swine flu scare. As a result, the FTC took action against numerous companies involved in scams related to the pandemic.
2009: Championed College Tuition Tax Credits
In 2009, as part of the American Reinvestment and Recovery Act, Schumer advocated for and secured a $4,000 tuition tax credit for students among other tax credits and cuts aimed at stimulating the economy.
2009: Gowanda, New York Devastated by Flash Flood
In 2009, the village of Gowanda, New York experienced a devastating flash flood that resulted in two deaths and significant damage. The floodwaters, reaching up to four feet, led to Gowanda being declared both a state and federal disaster site.
2009: Schumer Criticizes Scotland's Release of Pan Am Flight 103 Bomber
In 2009, Chuck Schumer publicly condemned Scotland's decision to release Abdelbaset al-Megrahi, the convicted bomber of Pan Am Flight 103. He urged the United States to impose economic sanctions on the United Kingdom if it was found that Megrahi's release was linked to a significant oil deal between the UK and Libya.
2009: Schumer Proposes Standards for Government-Run Health Insurance
In 2009, Schumer proposed that new government-run health insurance programs adhere to the same standards as private insurance. This aimed to address concerns about public programs displacing private insurers. Schumer sought a level playing field for competition in the healthcare market.
March 2010: Faced Unsourced Allegations Related to Madoff Investigation
In March 2010, Harry Markopolos, the whistleblower in the Bernie Madoff case, released a book titled "No One Would Listen," in which he included an unsubstantiated claim alleging that Schumer contacted the SEC to inquire about the Madoff investigation. Schumer firmly denied this allegation.
June 2010: Schumer's Comments on Israel's Blockade of the Gaza Strip
In June 2010, Schumer delivered a speech at an Orthodox Union event in Washington D.C., where he discussed Israel's blockade of the Gaza Strip. He commended the economic progress in the West Bank due to cooperation between the Palestinian and Israeli governments in combating terrorism. However, he criticized the Gaza Strip's residents for supporting Hamas and suggested that Israel should "strangle them economically" while still providing humanitarian aid. Schumer also argued that the blockade was necessary to prevent weapons from entering Gaza and to demonstrate the benefits of cooperation to Palestinians. He further stated that most Palestinians did not believe in a two-state solution or recognize Jewish historical claims to the land.
2010: Received Significant Donations from Securities and Investment Industry
Since 2010, the securities and investment industry has emerged as the top donor to Schumer's senatorial campaigns, marking a notable shift in his political financing.
2010: Schumer's "Chop Shop" Remark Sparks Controversy
In 2010, during a Senate floor discussion about an immigration bill, Schumer's use of the term "chop shop" to describe Indian tech company Infosys Technologies ignited controversy. The remark, which drew criticism from individuals and organizations in both India and the US, led Schumer to acknowledge the characterization as inaccurate, highlighting a moment of unintended offense in his political discourse.
2010: Shifting Stance on Hedge Fund Taxes
Schumer initially defended low taxes for hedge fund and private equity managers in the mid-2000s, arguing it was essential for the industry's well-being. However, in 2010, he changed his stance and suggested that a hedge-fund tax would be acceptable and wouldn't harm the industry.
2010: Chuck Schumer Re-elected to the Senate
In 2010, Chuck Schumer was re-elected to the Senate.
2010: Schumer Supports Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act
Further solidifying his commitment to healthcare reform, Schumer voted for the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act in 2010, a key piece of legislation aimed at refining and expanding upon the Affordable Care Act.
2010: Schumer Clarifies Stance on Gun Ownership
During his 2010 reelection campaign, Schumer addressed a debate question about gun ownership, denying possessing a handgun or a permit. He produced a letter from the NYPD confirming that neither he nor his wife, Iris Weinshall, had a handgun license from NYC. Schumer's aide clarified that, aside from an NRA marksmanship award earned at age 14, the senator did not own a gun or hold a license to carry one.
June 2011: Bitcoin Crackdown
In June 2011, Schumer joined Senator Joe Manchin in seeking a crackdown on Bitcoin, alleging that it facilitated illegal drug transactions on the Silk Road website due to its anonymous nature and lack of a traditional money trail.
2011: Chuck Schumer Becomes Chair of the Senate Democratic Policy Committee
In 2011, Chuck Schumer became chair of the Senate Democratic Policy Committee.
2011: Schumer's stance on bike path in Park Slope
In 2011, Schumer was reported to have been involved in efforts to remove a new protected bike path in his Park Slope neighborhood. Although he didn't publicly express his opinion, his wife actively opposed the project, and reports suggested his behind-the-scenes lobbying against it.
January 18, 2012: Protest 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 Chuck Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand. The protest was against the controversial PROTECT IP Act, which Schumer sponsored and would restrict access to websites judged to be infringing copyrights. Demonstrators criticized the bill for allegedly originating with wealthy campaign contributors who would reward legislators for passing it.
February 2012: Tax Policy Debate
In February 2012, Schumer initially disagreed with the Obama administration's proposal to raise taxes on individuals earning over $250,000 per year. He suggested a higher threshold of $1 million, arguing that $250,000 didn't necessarily equate to wealth in many parts of the country. He later acknowledged the need to increase taxes on those earning over $250,000 to generate sufficient revenue.
March 2012: Call for Investigation on Facebook Passwords
In March 2012, Chuck Schumer and Senator Richard Blumenthal gained national attention by calling on Attorney General Eric Holder and the Department of Justice to investigate practices by employers requiring Facebook passwords from employee applicants and workers.
April 2012: Anti-Immigration Law Challenge
In April 2012, Schumer introduced a bill to overturn Arizona's anti-immigration law, arguing that states should not create their own immigration laws or use untrained officers to target individuals based on their perceived immigration status.
May 2013: Jessica Schumer's Role in Council of Economic Advisers
Jessica Schumer, Chuck Schumer's daughter, served as chief of staff and general counsel of the Council of Economic Advisers from May 2013 to August 2015.
June 2013: Immigration Reform Bill
In June 2013, as chairman of the Immigration, Refugees, and Border Security subcommittee, Schumer co-sponsored a comprehensive immigration reform bill that passed the Senate with a strong bipartisan majority. However, the House of Representatives refused to vote on the bill, and the legislation failed.
August 2013: Schumer Criticizes Putin's Actions After Snowden Asylum
Following Russia's decision to grant asylum to Edward Snowden in August 2013, Schumer accused Putin of acting like a "schoolyard bully" and expressed concern about the deteriorating relationship between the United States and Russia, describing it as the most strained since the Cold War.
October 2013: Supported Proposal to End Shipping Restrictions
In October 2013, Schumer announced his support for a proposal that would lift restrictions on shipping beer, wine, and spirits through the U.S. Postal Service. He argued that this change would generate an estimated $225 million in new revenue for the USPS, helping to keep local post offices open, while also providing consumers with a wider selection of alcoholic beverages.
2013: Supported Death Penalty for Boston Marathon Bomber
In 2013, Schumer stated that the death penalty was "appropriate" for Dzhokhar Tsarnaev, the perpetrator of the Boston Marathon bombing, citing the federal law he authored in 1994 while heading the House crime subcommittee as justification for its application in this case.
April 2014: Backed Paycheck Fairness Act
In April 2014, during Senate debates on the Paycheck Fairness Act, a bill intended to address the gender pay gap, Schumer supported the measure. In response to Republican claims that Democrats were using the bill and the issue of equal pay for political gain in the 2014 midterm elections, Schumer emphasized the significance of pay equity, noting that women represent 53% of the electorate.
2014: Schumer Supports Israel in 2014 Israel–Gaza Conflict
During the 2014 Israel–Gaza conflict, Schumer expressed his support for Israel.
2014: Recognized for Securing FEMA Compensation for Flood-Stricken Gowanda
In 2014, Schumer received recognition for his role in helping Gowanda, New York secure $700,000 in compensation from FEMA following a devastating flash flood in 2009 that resulted in two deaths and significant damage.
August 6, 2015: Schumer Announces Opposition to Iran Nuclear Deal
On August 6, 2015, Schumer publicly announced his opposition to the nuclear agreement with Iran. Although he intended to inform the White House, his Senate colleagues, and then the public, the White House leaked the news during a Republican debate. This move was interpreted by some as an attempt to minimize media coverage of Schumer's stance.
August 2015: End of Jessica Schumer's Role in Council of Economic Advisers
Jessica Schumer's tenure as chief of staff and general counsel of the Council of Economic Advisers ended in August 2015.
2015: Proposed One-Time Tax on Multinational Corporations' Overseas Holdings
In 2015, Schumer and Senator Rob Portman co-sponsored a Senate bill that proposed a one-time tax on the $2.2 trillion held by multinational corporations in overseas tax havens. The tax, levied on funds on which 35% was already owed, was set at a rate considerably lower than the statutory corporate tax rate.
2015: Harry Reid Announces Retirement
Harry Reid announced his retirement in 2015.
March 2016: Schumer Urges Hearings for Supreme Court Nominee Merrick Garland
Following President Obama's nomination of Merrick Garland to the Supreme Court in March 2016, Senator Schumer called on Senators Mitch McConnell and Chuck Grassley to hold confirmation hearings. He believed hearings were necessary for the American public to assess Garland's qualifications and determine whether he was fit to serve on the court.
October 2016: Schumer Expresses Loss of Confidence in FBI Director Comey
In October 2016, following FBI Director James Comey's announcement to reopen the investigation into Hillary Clinton's handling of classified emails, Senator Schumer publicly stated his loss of confidence in Comey.
November 2016: Schumer Warns of Opposition to Non-Mainstream Supreme Court Nominees
In November 2016, after Donald Trump was elected president, Senator Schumer warned that Democrats would actively oppose any Supreme Court nominees who were not considered "mainstream." He criticized Republicans for their handling of Merrick Garland's nomination and argued that Democrats would closely scrutinize Trump's nominees.
November 2016: Clarified Relationship with President-Elect Trump
In November 2016, following Trump's election, Schumer clarified that he and Trump were not friends and had only had "civil conversations a couple of times." This countered Trump's earlier statements claiming closeness with Schumer.
November 2016: Chuck Schumer Elected as Minority Leader
Chuck Schumer was elected minority leader by the Senate Democratic caucus in November 2016.
December 2016: Schumer Demands Congressional Inquiry into Russian Meddling
Schumer, in December 2016, called for a congressional inquiry into Russian interference in U.S. affairs.
December 2016: Schumer Calls for Senate Select Committee on Cyber
In December 2016, Schumer, alongside Senators John McCain, Lindsey Graham, and Jack Reed, wrote to Majority Leader McConnell advocating for the establishment of a Senate select committee focused on cybersecurity. Schumer emphasized the committee's role in investigating Russian interference in U.S. affairs as well as potential threats posed by other countries like China and Iran.
December 2016: Called for Release of Trump Cabinet Nominees' Tax Returns
In December 2016, Schumer called for Trump's cabinet nominees to publicly disclose their tax returns, citing the precedent set by nominees Steve Mnuchin and Tom Price.
2016: Chuck Schumer Wins Fourth Term and Becomes Democratic Leader
In 2016, Chuck Schumer won his fourth term in the Senate and became the Democratic leader.
2016: Support for Facebook During Controversies
In 2016, Chuck Schumer offered political support to Facebook, acting as an ally and advocating for its interests in Senate debates about regulating the company or investigating its involvement in various controversies, including Russian interference in the 2016 election.
2016: Chuck Schumer Comments on Democratic Party Loss
Following the 2016 Presidential Election, Chuck Schumer said the Democratic Party lost due to not having a strong economic message.
2016: Chuck Schumer Re-elected to the Senate
Chuck Schumer was re-elected to the Senate in 2016.
January 2017: Schumer Defends U.S. Intelligence Community and Introduces Legislation on Russian Sanctions
In January 2017, amidst questions surrounding the U.S. intelligence community's assessments, Schumer defended the community, warning about potential repercussions for those who challenged their findings. He subsequently introduced legislation aimed at restricting executive action related to Russian sanctions.
February 2017: Criticized Trump's Governance Despite Populist Campaigning
In February 2017, before Trump's address to Congress, Schumer predicted a less memorable speech compared to predecessors due to what he perceived as a disconnect between Trump's words and his administration's actions. He criticized Trump for governing as a "pro-corporate, pro-elite, hard-right ideologue" despite his populist campaign style.
February 2017: Schumer on North Korea's Irresponsibility
Schumer, in February 2017, characterized North Korea as an "irresponsible nation" and suggested that China could play a key role in curbing North Korea's actions. He noted that a large portion of North Korea's trade flows through China, advocating for the U.S. to pressure China to take stronger measures against North Korea.
March 2017: Schumer Leads Democratic Opposition to Supreme Court Nominee Neil Gorsuch
At the conclusion of Senate hearings for Supreme Court nominee Neil Gorsuch in March 2017, Senator Schumer announced his opposition to Gorsuch's confirmation and urged fellow Democrats to join him in blocking a vote. He argued that if Gorsuch could not secure 60 votes, the solution was to nominate a different candidate rather than changing Senate rules. Democrats subsequently filibustered Gorsuch's nomination, but Republicans invoked the "nuclear option" to overcome the filibuster, and Gorsuch was confirmed the following day.
March 2017: Demanded Apology from Trump and Criticized his Tweeting Habits
In March 2017, Schumer called on Trump to apologize for alleging that the Obama administration had wiretapped him during his campaign. He urged Trump to refrain from tweeting, suggesting it would allow him to focus on serving the nation's interests. Schumer also argued that Trump's promotion of conspiracy theories had damaged his credibility.
April 2017: Schumer Urges Caution in Afghanistan
In April 2017, echoing his previous concerns, Schumer continued to urge caution regarding US military involvement in Afghanistan. He cited the significant casualties experienced in Iraq and emphasized that the military would require Congressional approval for any increase in troop deployments to Afghanistan.
April 2017: Schumer Responds to Shayrat Missile Strike
Following the Shayrat missile strike in April 2017, Schumer expressed his support for a "pinpointed, limited action to punish and hopefully deter Assad from doing this again." He cautioned against further US involvement in Syria.
May 2017: Schumer Co-Sponsors Israel Anti-Boycott Act
Schumer, in May 2017, co-sponsored the Israel Anti-Boycott Act (Senate Bill 720). This bill proposed making it a federal crime, with a maximum sentence of 20 years imprisonment, for Americans to support or engage in boycotts against Israel and Israeli settlements in the occupied Palestinian territories if those boycotts were in protest of Israeli government actions. The bill also aimed to allow U.S. states to legally refuse to conduct business with contractors who participate in boycotts against Israel.
May 2017: Schumer Raises Concerns about Comey's Firing and Calls for Investigation into Russian Interference
In May 2017, after President Donald Trump fired FBI Director James Comey, Senator Schumer suggested that the firing may have been related to the FBI's investigation into potential collusion between the Trump campaign and Russia. He called for an impartial and independent investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election, outlining the Democrats' demands for the investigation process, including the appointment of a special prosecutor and meetings with key officials.
May 2017: Schumer Criticizes Amendment to American Health Care Act
In May 2017, Schumer expressed strong criticism of Fred Upton's amendment to the American Health Care Act. He argued that it failed to adequately protect Americans with pre-existing conditions, likening it to a superficial remedy for a serious problem. After the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) projected that the American Health Care Act would result in millions of Americans losing health coverage, Schumer called on Republicans and President Trump to discard the bill and collaborate with Democrats on a more effective plan to reduce healthcare costs.
May 2017: Schumer Urges Release of Trump-Russia Meeting Transcripts
During a Senate floor speech in May 2017, Schumer pressed the White House to disclose the unedited transcripts of the meeting between President Trump and Russian officials that had taken place the previous week. He argued that continued secrecy surrounding the meeting would fuel public doubts about the president's ability to safeguard sensitive national secrets.
July 2017: Schumer Votes for Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act
In July 2017, Schumer voted in favor of the Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act. This legislation imposed sanctions on Iran, Russia, and North Korea.
November 2017: Schumer advocates for Net Neutrality
In November 2017, Schumer voiced his support for net neutrality, arguing its significance for job creation and economic growth in the 21st century. He drew parallels with the free highway system, highlighting the potential negative consequences of its repeal.
November 2017: Chuck Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand Announce Funding for Head Start and Early Head Start Programs
Chuck Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand announced funding for Head Start and Early Head Start programs in November 2017.
2017: Schumer Recommends Blocking Chinese Acquisitions of US Companies
In 2017, Schumer wrote to President Trump recommending a measure to prevent China from further acquiring American companies. This proposed block aimed to increase pressure on Beijing to assist in curbing North Korea's nuclear missile program.
2017: Chuck Schumer becomes Senate Minority Leader and leads the Senate Democratic Caucus
In 2017, Chuck Schumer was appointed as the Senate Minority Leader and began leading the Senate Democratic Caucus.
2017: End of Chuck Schumer's Tenure as Vice Chair of the Democratic Caucus
Chuck Schumer's tenure as Vice Chair of the Democratic Caucus ended in 2017.
2017: Schumer Calls for US Support for Kurdish Independence
Following the 2017 Kurdistan Region independence referendum, Schumer became the first senator to publicly advocate for US support for Kurdish independence. He introduced a resolution urging the US government to shift its policy towards backing a political process that would address the Kurds' aspirations for an independent state. Schumer also called upon Iraq to engage in dialogue and seek a peaceful resolution to accommodate the Kurds' aspirations.
January 2018: Schumer leads effort to overturn FCC vote on net neutrality
In January 2018, Schumer rallied the Democratic caucus in support of a resolution to overturn the FCC's vote on net neutrality. He criticized Republicans, urging them to prioritize consumers over large corporations.
January 2018: Schumer Criticizes Republican Efforts to Discredit Mueller Investigation
In January 2018, Senator Schumer accused Republicans of engaging in conspiracy theories and delusional paranoia to discredit Special Counsel Robert Mueller's investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election. He argued that Republicans were attempting to undermine the investigation because it was getting too close to President Trump.
January 2018: Schumer Advocates for Western New York National Veterans Cemetery
In January 2018, Senator Schumer urged the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs to finalize acquisitions for land in Pembroke, New York, and begin construction of the New Western New York National Veterans Cemetery. He emphasized the importance of providing a proper burial site for veterans near their homes, families, and communities they served.
January 2018: DACA Negotiations
In January 2018, Schumer engaged in negotiations with the Trump administration regarding the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. He offered funding for a border wall in exchange for protecting DACA recipients, but the offer was declined. Schumer criticized the Trump administration for using Dreamers as bargaining chips and obstructing a compromise on immigration.
February 2018: Schumer Urges Trump on Background Checks for Gun Purchases
Following the Stoneman Douglas High School shooting in February 2018, Schumer, along with three other Democratic senators, penned a letter to President Trump. They urged him to endorse legislation mandating background checks for all gun purchases, without extraneous provisions. They argued that this would significantly advance the comprehensive system Trump called for after the Stoneman Douglas attack. They asserted there was no justification for allowing individuals denied firearms by federally licensed dealers to easily obtain the same weapon at gun shows or online.
March 2018: Schumer Supports Legislation for Children of Deceased First Responders
In March 2018, Schumer voiced his support for bipartisan legislation, spearheaded by Bob Casey and Pat Toomey, aimed at assisting the children of deceased first responders in affording college. The legislation proposed increasing the availability of Pell grant funding for this purpose, reflecting a commitment to supporting the families of those who serve in critical public safety roles.
March 2018: Schumer Urges Trump to Take Stronger Action Against China
Prior to the Trump administration's implementation of concrete measures against China in late March 2018, Schumer and other Democratic leaders pressed the president to prioritize addressing China's economic practices. Schumer asserted that China had adversely affected millions of jobs and caused significant economic losses, yet previous administrations from both parties had not taken adequate action in response.
March 2018: Schumer Addresses AIPAC on Israeli Settlements
In March 2018, during an address to the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC), Schumer asserted that Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem, were not a factor in the Israeli–Palestinian conflict.
April 2018: Schumer announces support for cannabis decriminalization
In April 2018, Schumer publicly announced his support for the decriminalization of cannabis at the federal level. On April 20th, he revealed his sponsorship of legislation to remove cannabis from the Controlled Substances Act, aiming to address the issue comprehensively.
May 2018: Schumer Critiques Trump's Approach to North Korea
During May 2018, Schumer expressed his disapproval of the inclusion of Kim Jong-un's image on the commemorative coin marking the 2018 North Korea–United States summit. He labeled Kim a "brutal dictator" and proposed that the Peace House would be a more suitable alternative for the coin's design.
May 2018: Schumer Praises Trump's Opening of U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem
In May 2018, Schumer expressed his approval of President Trump's decision to open the U.S. embassy in Jerusalem. He highlighted his own past support for this move by referencing his sponsorship of legislation two decades prior to achieve this goal.
May 2018: Schumer Responds to Trump's Potential Easing of Sanctions on ZTE
In May 2018, when President Trump hinted at a willingness to ease sanctions on ZTE as part of a trade agreement with China, Schumer observed a growing bipartisan consensus in Congress opposing such a move. He noted that both Democrats and Republicans in the House and Senate were urging the president to take a firm stance against China and ensure that actions aligned with rhetoric.
June 2018: Condemned Maxine Waters's Call to Harass Trump Administration Officials
In June 2018, Schumer publicly disagreed with Representative Maxine Waters's call for the harassment of Trump administration members as a form of protest against their policies. He emphasized that disagreement with a politician should be addressed through organized civic action and voting, not harassment, highlighting the un-American nature of such actions.
June 2018: Schumer Criticizes Chief Justice Roberts's Leadership of the Supreme Court
In June 2018, Senator Schumer accused Chief Justice John Roberts of allowing the Supreme Court to become increasingly politicized, citing decisions that aligned with the goals of the "hard right." Schumer expressed concern that the court was becoming more partisan under Roberts's leadership, highlighting rulings on issues such as abortion access, campaign finance, and voting rights.
June 27, 2018: Schumer introduces Marijuana Freedom and Opportunity Act
On June 27, 2018, Schumer formally introduced the Marijuana Freedom and Opportunity Act, legislation aimed at decriminalizing cannabis at the federal level. The bill proposed removing cannabis from the Controlled Substances Act and allocating funds for research and businesses in the cannabis industry.
July 2018: Schumer Condemns Trump's Comments on Russian-German Gas Pipeline
In July 2018, after President Trump criticized Germany's approval of a new Russian-German gas pipeline that bypassed Poland and Ukraine, Schumer joined House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi in issuing a statement. They condemned Trump's remarks as an embarrassment and expressed concern that his behavior signaled greater loyalty to Russian President Putin than to NATO allies.
July 2018: Schumer Leads Resolution Against Russian Questioning of US Officials
In July 2018, Schumer spearheaded a non-binding resolution warning President Trump against allowing the Russian government to question US diplomats and officials. The resolution, passed with a 98-0 vote, stated that the United States should refuse to make any current or former diplomat, civil servant, political appointee, law enforcement official, or member of the Armed Forces available for questioning by Vladimir Putin's government.
July 2018: Schumer Reportedly Suggested Garland as a Bipartisan Supreme Court Nominee
Reports in July 2018 revealed that Senator Schumer had previously advocated for President Trump to nominate Merrick Garland to the Supreme Court. Schumer believed that Garland's nomination would attract bipartisan support, as opposed to nominating a more controversial figure who opposed the Affordable Care Act or Roe v. Wade.
July 2018: Schumer Calls for Scrutiny of Supreme Court Nominee Brett Kavanaugh
Following President Trump's nomination of Brett Kavanaugh to the Supreme Court in July 2018, Senator Schumer advocated for direct questioning of Kavanaugh regarding his views on Roe v. Wade and other landmark cases. Schumer expressed concern about Kavanaugh's previously stated opinion on the United States v. Nixon decision, suggesting that Kavanaugh might not hold President Trump accountable if confirmed as a Supreme Court justice.
July 2018: Support for Facebook in Senate Debates
In July 2018, Chuck Schumer confronted Senator Mark Warner and urged him to focus on the need for Facebook to address issues such as right-wing disinformation, election interference, and consumer privacy. Schumer has been a political ally of Facebook, seeking to advance the company's interests in Senate debates.
August 2018: Senate Approves Funding for National Firefighter Cancer Registry
In August 2018, Schumer announced the Senate's approval of $1 million in funding for the national firefighter cancer registry, included as an amendment to the FY2019 Health and Human Services minibus appropriations bill. This funding aimed to enhance research, tracking, treatment, and ultimately prevention of cancer among firefighters, acknowledging their increased risk due to occupational hazards.
August 2018: Condemned Trump's Remarks about Jewish Voters
In August 2018, Schumer criticized Trump's statement accusing American Jews who vote for Democrats of being "disloyal," asserting that such rhetoric echoed historical tropes used against Jewish people with harmful consequences. He argued that Trump's comments, whether intentional or not, emboldened anti-Semitism both domestically and internationally.
2018: Schumer expresses concern over potential Roe v. Wade overturn
Following Justice Anthony Kennedy's retirement in 2018, Schumer expressed concerns over Trump's potential Supreme Court nominee, fearing an attempt to overturn Roe v. Wade.
2018: Chuck Schumer Becomes a Grandfather
In 2018, Jessica Schumer gave birth to a son, making Chuck Schumer a grandfather.
January 2019: Introduction of the Background Check Expansion Act
In January 2019, Schumer joined 39 other senators in introducing the Background Check Expansion Act. This legislation sought to mandate background checks for all firearm sales or transfers, including those by unlicensed sellers. The bill outlined exceptions for transfers between law enforcement officers, temporary loans for hunting or sporting events, gifts to immediate family members, transfers through inheritance, and temporary transfers for immediate self-defense.
March 2019: Schumer advocates for dairy farmers
In March 2019, Schumer joined a group of senators in urging the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture to provide support for struggling dairy farmers. They highlighted the ongoing market instability and encouraged the adoption of the Dairy Margin Coverage program.
March 2020: Controversy over Schumer's statements about Supreme Court justices
In March 2020, Schumer sparked controversy due to his comments about Supreme Court Justices Neil Gorsuch and Brett Kavanaugh. During a rally, he suggested that they would face consequences if they voted against abortion rights, remarks that were widely condemned as incitements to violence. Schumer later apologized for his statements.
October 2020: Schumer Calls for Suspension of US Military Aid to Azerbaijan
In October 2020, Schumer urged the Trump administration to halt US military assistance to Azerbaijan, which was being provided through the Pentagon's "building partner assistance program." Concerns were raised that this aid could be used in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict between Azerbaijan and Armenia. Schumer co-signed a letter voicing these concerns.
November 2020: Announced New Stance on Student Debt Elimination
Responding to The American Prospect's Day One Agenda, Schumer unveiled a new stance on addressing student debt. In November 2020, he expressed support for a proposal co-authored with Elizabeth Warren that would eliminate the first $50,000 of student loan debt, suggesting that Joe Biden could enact this measure through executive action without requiring legislation.
2020: Democrats Gain Control of the Senate
Democrats gained control of the Senate following the 2020 election.
January 6, 2021: Experienced and Condemned the Attack on the U.S. Capitol
On January 6, 2021, Schumer was participating in the certification of the Electoral College vote count when Trump supporters attacked the U.S. Capitol. Along with other members of Congress, he was evacuated from the Senate chamber and taken to an undisclosed location. During the attack, Schumer and Pelosi urged Trump to demand that the rioters vacate the Capitol and its grounds. Following the securing of the Capitol, Schumer condemned the day's events in a speech, labeling it a day of "infamy" and blaming Trump for the attack. He called on Vice President Pence to invoke the Twenty-fifth Amendment to remove Trump from office and expressed his support for impeachment.
January 2021: Chuck Schumer Becomes First Jewish Senate Majority Leader
Chuck Schumer became the first Jewish Senate Majority Leader in January 2021.
January 20, 2021: Chuck Schumer Becomes Senate Majority Leader Following Democratic Control of Senate
On January 20, 2021, Chuck Schumer became Senate Majority Leader after Democrats gained control of the Senate.
July 14, 2021: Schumer releases draft of Cannabis Administration and Opportunity Act
On July 14, 2021, Schumer, in collaboration with Senators Ron Wyden and Cory Booker, released a draft of the Cannabis Administration and Opportunity Act for public comment. This comprehensive bill aimed to legalize cannabis at the federal level.
2021: Chuck Schumer becomes Senate Majority Leader
In 2021, Chuck Schumer became the Senate Majority Leader.
July 21, 2022: Schumer formally introduces Cannabis Administration and Opportunity Act
On July 21, 2022, Schumer formally introduced the Cannabis Administration and Opportunity Act, a comprehensive federal legalization bill that had previously been released for public comment.
2022: Chuck Schumer Re-elected to the Senate
Chuck Schumer was re-elected to the Senate in 2022.
2022: Passage of Key Legislation under Chuck Schumer's Leadership
In 2022, several key pieces of legislation were passed under Chuck Schumer's leadership, such as the Inflation Reduction Act.
November 21, 2023: Broadway Debut in 'Gutenberg! The Musical!'
On November 21, 2023, Chuck Schumer made his Broadway debut in a one-night performance as the Producer in 'Gutenberg! The Musical!'.
2023: Chuck Schumer becomes longest-serving US Senator from New York
Chuck Schumer became the longest-serving US Senator from New York in 2023.
March 14, 2024: Schumer Calls for Netanyahu's Replacement Amidst Israel-Hamas War
On March 14, 2024, during a Senate speech, Schumer criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, labeling him an obstacle to peace in the Middle East. He advocated for elections to replace Netanyahu after the conclusion of the Israel–Hamas war. Schumer argued that the high number of civilian casualties in Gaza was leading to a significant decline in international support for Israel. In response, Netanyahu organized a video address to a Senate GOP conference.