History of Chuck Schumer in Timeline
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.
1933: Enactment of the Glass-Steagall Act
In 1933, the Glass-Steagall Act was enacted, which Chuck Schumer would later oppose repealing in 1987 and support repealing in 1999.
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.
1974: Elected to New York State Assembly
In 1974, Chuck Schumer was elected to the New York State Assembly, filling a seat previously held by Stephen Solarz.
1975: Joined New York State Assembly
In 1975, Chuck Schumer became a member of the New York State Assembly.
1975: Began Serving in New York State Assembly
In 1975, Chuck Schumer began serving in the New York State Assembly.
1975: Passed the New York State Bar
In early 1975, Chuck Schumer passed the New York state bar but opted for a career in politics instead of practicing law.
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.
1980: End of time in NY State Assembly
In 1980, Chuck Schumer finished his time as a member of the New York State Assembly.
1980: Won House Seat
In 1980, Chuck Schumer won Elizabeth Holtzman's vacated House seat.
1981: Began House Tenure
In 1981, Chuck Schumer began his tenure in the House of Representatives.
1981: Joined US House of Representatives
In 1981, Chuck Schumer began serving in the United States House of Representatives.
1981: End of time in New York State Assembly
In 1981, Chuck Schumer's time in the New York State Assembly ended.
1982: Redistricting and Potential Matchup
In 1982, as a result of redistricting, Schumer prepared for a potential matchup with Solarz by seeking campaign donations.
1983: Redistricted to 10th congressional district
In 1983, Chuck Schumer was redistricted to the 10th congressional district.
1983: District Number Changed
In 1983, Chuck Schumer's district was numbered the 10th.
1987: Schumer Opposes Repeal of the Glass-Steagall Act in NYT Op-Ed
In 1987, then-Representative Chuck 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: District Number Changed
In 1993, Chuck Schumer's district was numbered the 9th.
1994: Authored Law for Death Penalty Cases
In 1994, Chuck Schumer authored the law for death penalty cases when he was head of the crime subcommittee in the House.
1994: Authorship of the Assault Weapons Ban
In 1994, Chuck Schumer co-authored the Assault Weapons Ban as a representative, which banned semi-automatic rifles, shotguns, and handguns with specific features.
1994: Schumer Joins Campaign to Revoke Tax-Exempt Status of Holy Land Foundation
In 1994, Chuck 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.
1995: Schumer's Prior Stance on Jerusalem Embassy Act
In 1995, Chuck Schumer sponsored legislation to open the U.S. embassy in Jerusalem, his support for this action highlighted by his praise for President Trump in May 2018 when the embassy was finally opened.
1995: Schumer Sponsors the Omnibus Counterterrorism Act
In 1995, Chuck Schumer sponsored the Omnibus Counterterrorism Act of 1995 in the House of Representatives, showing his early focus on national security issues.
1995: Oversaw Waco Siege Hearings
In 1995, Chuck Schumer, as a member of the House Judiciary Committee, was one of four members of Congress who oversaw the House investigation of the Waco siege hearings, leading the Democratic party's defense of the Clinton administration.
December 1998: Vote on Clinton Impeachment Charges in House
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 of the impeachment charges against President Bill Clinton, both in committee and on the House floor.
1998: Elected to the Senate
In 1998, Chuck Schumer was elected to the Senate, defeating Al D'Amato.
1998: Won Senate Election
In 1998, Chuck Schumer won the Democratic primary with 51% of the vote and then defeated Al D'Amato in the general election to become a Senator.
January 1999: Vote on Clinton Impeachment Charges in Senate
In January 1999, as a newly elected member of the Senate, Chuck Schumer voted "not guilty" on the two impeachment charges against President Bill Clinton.
1999: Became US Senator
In 1999, Chuck Schumer began serving as the senior United States Senator from New York.
1999: End of time in US House of Representatives
In 1999, Chuck Schumer finished his time in the United States House of Representatives.
1999: Schumer Supports Repeal of Glass-Steagall Act
In 1999, Chuck 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, Schumer and McCain introduced legislation to make it harder for brand-name drug makers to keep cheaper generic drugs off the market.
October 2001: Advocated for Generic Ciprofloxacin
In October 2001, Schumer expressed his desire for generic ciprofloxacin to be available for government use, suggesting the federal government had the authority to order its immediate production.
November 2001: Hearings on Bush's Decision to Try Terrorists in Military Tribunals
In November 2001, Schumer announced hearings on George W. Bush's decision to try terrorists in military tribunals, amid concerns that Bush would bypass the American legal system. The goals of the November 2001 hearings were to determine if Bush had the power to form a tribunal without Congressional interaction and whether a military tribunal was the most efficient instrument.
November 2001: Called for Legislation on Information Sharing
In November 2001, Schumer, along with Hillary Clinton, called 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: Shutdown of the Holy Land Foundation
In 2001, the Holy Land Foundation, a Palestinian-American charity, was shut down, following a campaign Schumer joined in 1994 to revoke its tax-exempt status.
March 2002: Schumer Protects Amendment for First-Time Voter Verification
In March 2002, as the Senate worked on an election reform bill, Chuck Schumer and Senator Ron Wyden led a successful effort in protecting an amendment allowing first-time voters to be verified with only a signature.
April 2002: Schumer Criticizes Bush Administration's Middle East Policy
In April 2002, during a Senate speech, Chuck Schumer called the Bush administration's Middle East policy "muddled, confused and inconsistent" and criticized the planned meeting between Secretary of State Colin Powell and Yasser Arafat.
July 2002: Senate Passed Bill on Generic Drug Costs
In July 2002, the Senate passed a bill sponsored by Schumer and McCain aimed at lowering the costs of generic drugs and preventing lawsuits by brand-name manufacturers.
2002: Authorship of Bankruptcy Bill Provision
In 2002, Chuck Schumer authored a provision to a bill intended to make erasing debts through bankruptcy more difficult. The provision sparked controversy, with anti-abortion activists claiming it restricted their ability to write off court fines.
January 2004: Opposition to Charles Pickering Nomination
In January 2004, Chuck Schumer stated his intent to prevent Charles Pickering's confirmation to the federal appeals court, arguing that the U.S. could find a better candidate.
March 2004: Schumer Supports Whistleblower Richard Foster
In March 2004, Chuck Schumer and other senators signed a letter urging President Bush to protect whistleblower Richard Foster, who exposed efforts to conceal higher cost estimates for the Medicare prescription drug program.
August 2004: Schumer Troubled by Leak of Muhammad Naeem Noor Khan's Arrest
In August 2004, Schumer expressed concern over the leak of Muhammad Naeem Noor Khan's arrest by American officials to reporters. Schumer cited the fact that the public had learned little of Khan's role in providing the information that led Homeland Security Secretary Tom Ridge to announce a higher terror alert level in August 2004.
September 2004: Schumer's Attempt to Extend the Assault Weapons Ban
In September 2004, despite Chuck Schumer's efforts to extend it, the Assault Weapons Ban, which he co-authored, expired.
2004: Reelected to Senate
In 2004, Chuck Schumer was reelected to the Senate with 71% of the vote, defeating Howard Mills.
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.
2005: Chaired Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee
In 2005, Chuck Schumer became the chair of the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee.
March 2006: Schumer Introduces Amendment on Port Operations
In March 2006, after the House Appropriations Committee voted to block an amendment allowing Dubai Ports World to operate some terminals at U.S. ports, Chuck Schumer introduced a similar amendment barring a company from operating in a U.S. port if owned by a country that recognized the Taliban regime.
July 2006: Schumer Signs Letter Charging al-Maliki with Failing to Condemn Hezbollah
In July 2006, Chuck Schumer, along with Harry Reid and Dick Durbin, signed a letter to Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki charging him with failing to condemn the aggression of Hezbollah and Israel's right to defend itself.
November 2006: Hentoff Criticizes Schumer's Indifference to War on the Constitution
In November 2006, Nat Hentoff of the Village Voice wrote that "the loquacious Schumer has been indifferent to the administration's war on the Constitution and on our laws and treaties", particularly on the issue of torture.
2006: Schumer Criticizes Trade Imbalance with China
In 2006, Chuck 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.
2006: Democratic Gains in Senate
In 2006, Chuck Schumer oversaw Democratic gains in the Senate during the elections.
January 2007: Publication of Positively American
In January 2007, Schumer published a book, Positively American: Winning Back the Middle-Class Majority One Family at a Time, outlining strategies for Democrats to court middle-class voters.
March 11, 2007: Schumer Calls for Alberto Gonzales' Resignation
On March 11, 2007, Schumer became the first lawmaker in either chamber 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".
March 2007: Proposed Federal Government Bailout of Subprime Borrowers
After the March 2007 meltdown of the subprime mortgage industry, Schumer proposed a federal government bailout of subprime borrowers to save homeowners from losing their residences and to shore up communities that were seeing neighborhoods destabilized due to foreclosures. Schumer pushed for regulatory reforms and called for mortgage industry regulators and the SEC to move closer to the industry.
April 19, 2007: Schumer Repeats Call for Gonzales' Resignation During Testimony
During Gonzales's testimony on April 19, 2007, Schumer repeated his call for Gonzales to resign due to Gonzales's repeated claims of not knowing or recalling details about the controversy over the firing of eight U.S. attorneys.
September 2007: Proposal to Raise Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac's Conforming Loan Limits
In September 2007, Schumer proposed that the Office of Federal Housing Enterprise Oversight (OFHEO) raise Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac's conforming loan limits from $417,000 to $625,000. This would allow these government-sponsored enterprises to back mortgages on homes priced up to $780,000 with a 20% down payment.
2007: Became Vice Chair of Democratic Caucus
In 2007, Chuck Schumer became Vice Chair of the Democratic Caucus in the Senate.
2007: Support for Michael Mukasey Nomination
In 2007, Chuck Schumer expressed his support for Michael Mukasey to become attorney general of the United States, after Bush nominated him. Despite concerns about Mukasey's stance on waterboarding, Schumer voted to confirm him, citing assurances that Mukasey would enforce laws against it.
June 26, 2008: Public Release of Letters About IndyMac Bank
On June 26, 2008, Schumer publicly released letters to regulators about IndyMac Bank, expressing concerns about its financial deterioration and potential risks to taxpayers and borrowers. This action led to a significant withdrawal of funds from IndyMac before its failure.
October 18, 2008: Wall Street Journal Article on IndyMac 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. His reported close ties to the founders of OneWest Bank have long been of interest to many action groups.
December 14, 2008: NYT Article on Schumer's Role in Wall Street Meltdown
On December 14, 2008, a New York Times article discussed Chuck Schumer's role in the Wall Street meltdown, highlighting how he embraced the industry's deregulatory agenda and took steps to protect the industry from government oversight.
December 22, 2008: OTS Regional Director Removed for IndyMac Financial Reporting
On December 22, 2008, The Washington Post reported that the OTS regional director in charge had been removed from his position for allowing IndyMac to falsify its financial reporting. Conservative commentator Rush Limbaugh blamed Schumer and recast IndyMac's July bankruptcy as an "October Surprise" planned by Democrats to help win the 2008 election.
2008: Democratic Gains in Senate
In 2008, Chuck Schumer oversaw Democratic gains in the Senate during the elections.
2008: "A" Grade on Middle-Class Issues
In 2008, Chuck Schumer received an "A" grade on the Drum Major Institute's Congressional Scorecard on middle-class issues.
2008: Schumer Honored by Field and Stream Magazine
In 2008, Chuck Schumer was honored with a "Hero Award" by Field and Stream magazine for his efforts supporting hunters through outdoor recreation grants.
March 2009: Schumer Announced Support for Same-Sex Marriage
In March 2009, Schumer announced his support for same-sex marriage, noting that it "was time". He previously supported civil unions.
March 22, 2009: Schumer Backs Full Reversal of DOMA
On March 22, 2009, at a private dinner with gay leaders, Schumer said he not only supported same-sex marriage, he also backed a full reversal of DOMA.
April 2009: Approval Rating
In April 2009, a SurveyUSA poll placed Schumer's approval rating at 62%, with 31% disapproving.
May 2009: Remarks on Sonia Sotomayor Supreme Court Nomination
In May 2009, Chuck Schumer stated that the confirmation process for Obama's Supreme Court nominee, Sonia Sotomayor, would be more of a test for the Republican Party than for Judge Sotomayor herself, describing Sotomayor as a "mainstream justice" whom Republicans should not oppose.
October 2009: Schumer Advocates for Scaling Back American Forces in Afghanistan
In October 2009, Chuck Schumer advocated for scaling back American forces in Afghanistan in favor of more reliance on unmanned drone attacks, questioning the need for stability in Afghanistan given the costs in Iraq.
December 2009: Schumer Votes for Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act
In December 2009, Chuck Schumer voted in favor of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, a landmark piece of healthcare legislation.
December 2009: Schumer Lobbies for Gay Marriage Bill in New York
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: College Tuition Tax Credit
In 2009, Chuck Schumer championed college tuition tax credits and facilitated the passage of a $4,000 tuition tax credit for students as part of the American Reinvestment and Recovery Act to stimulate the economy.
2009: Schumer Criticizes Scotland's Release of Pan Am Bomber
In 2009, Chuck Schumer criticized Scotland's release of convicted Pan Am Flight 103 bomber Abdelbaset al-Megrahi and called for the United States to impose economic sanctions on the United Kingdom if Megrahi's release was tied to a massive oil deal between the United Kingdom and Libya.
2009: Schumer Proposes Standards for Government-Run Health Insurance Programs
In 2009, Chuck Schumer proposed that any new government-run health insurance programs adhere to the same standards as private insurance, aiming to create a level playing field and address concerns about market competition.
2009: Efforts to Ban BPA and Cadmium
In 2009, Chuck Schumer worked with Representative Nita Lowey to ban bisphenol A (BPA) and cadmium, also urging the FTC to investigate companies selling fraudulent products during the swine flu scare, ultimately leading to notices for ten companies and identification of 140 scams.
2009: End of time as chair of the DSCC
In 2009, Chuck Schumer's time as chair of the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee ended.
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.
March 2010: Madoff Whistleblower Claims Schumer Contacted SEC
In March 2010, Bernie Madoff whistleblower Harry Markopolos claimed in his book, No One Would Listen, that Chuck Schumer called the SEC for information about the Madoff investigation, a claim Schumer denied.
June 2010: Schumer's Comments on Israel's Gaza Blockade
In June 2010, Chuck Schumer, at an Orthodox Union event, commented on Israel's blockade of the Gaza Strip, stating that Israel should "strangle them economically" while continuing humanitarian aid. He justified the blockade by arguing it keeps weapons out and demonstrates the benefits of moderation to Palestinians.
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.
2010: Schumer Votes for Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act
In 2010, Chuck Schumer supported the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act, further solidifying his commitment to healthcare reform.
2010: Reelected to Senate
In 2010, Chuck Schumer was reelected to the Senate with 66% of the vote.
2010: Securities and Investment Industry Becomes Largest Donor to Schumer's Campaigns
Since 2010, the securities and investment industry has been the largest donor to Chuck Schumer's senatorial campaigns.
June 2011: Schumer and Manchin Seek Crackdown on Bitcoin
In June 2011, Schumer and Senator Joe Manchin sought a crackdown on Bitcoin, saying it facilitated illegal drug trade transactions and wanted "to disrupt [the] Silk Road drug website".
2011: Chaired Senate Democratic Policy Committee
In 2011, Chuck Schumer became chair of the Senate Democratic Policy Committee.
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.
January 18, 2012: Protests Against PROTECT IP Act at Schumer's Office
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, who supported the PROTECT IP Act. Protesters complained the bill originated with wealthy campaign contributors.
March 2012: Call for Investigation into Employer Facebook Password Practices
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 from employee applicants and workers.
April 2012: Schumer Introduced SB 1070
In April 2012, Schumer introduced SB 1070, a bill that would kill Arizona's anti-immigration law, and ones like it if the Supreme Court ruled in favor of the states. He backed his position, saying: "States like Arizona and Alabama will no longer be able to get away with saying they are simply 'helping the federal government' to enforce the law when they are really writing their own laws and knowingly deploying untrained officers with a mission of arresting anyone and everyone who might fit the preconceived profile of an illegal immigrant."
May 2013: Daughter Appointed Chief of Staff
In May 2013, Jessica Schumer, Chuck Schumer's daughter, was appointed as the chief of staff and general counsel of the Council of Economic Advisers.
June 2013: Immigration Bill Passes Senate
In June 2013, the comprehensive immigration reform bill, written and sponsored by the Gang of Eight, including Schumer, passed the Senate with a strong majority (68-32). However, the House of Representatives refused to take up the bill, and the legislation died.
August 2013: Schumer on Russia and Snowden
In August 2013, Chuck Schumer criticized Putin's behavior as that of a "schoolyard bully" after Russia granted asylum to Edward Snowden, stating that US-Russia relations were at their most poisonous since the Cold War.
October 2013: Support for Shipping Beer, Wine, and Spirits
In October 2013, Chuck Schumer announced his support for ending restrictions on shipping beer, wine, and spirits through the U.S. Postal Service to generate new revenues for the USPS and broaden the availability of these products to consumers.
2013: Death Penalty for Boston Marathon Bomber
In 2013, Chuck Schumer stated that the death penalty would be "appropriate" for Dzhokhar Tsarnaev, the perpetrator of the Boston Marathon bombing, citing the federal law that he helped write in 1994.
April 2014: Schumer Backs the Paycheck Fairness Act
In April 2014, during the United States Senate debate on the Paycheck Fairness Act, Chuck Schumer backed the measure and told reporters that pay equity is a key issue for women, representing 53% of the vote.
2014: Schumer's Support for Israel in the 2014 Conflict
In 2014, Chuck Schumer voiced his support for Israel during the Israel-Gaza conflict, demonstrating his continued alignment with Israeli interests.
2014: Recognition for Securing FEMA Compensation
In 2014, Chuck Schumer was recognized for helping Gowanda, New York, receive $700,000 in compensation from FEMA due to the devastating flood in 2009.
August 6, 2015: Schumer Announces Opposition to Iran Nuclear Deal
On August 6, 2015, Chuck Schumer announced his opposition to the nuclear deal with Iran. The White House leaked the news during the Republican debate in what was described as an "apparent attempt to limit coverage".
August 2015: Daughter Leaves Council of Economic Advisers
In August 2015, Jessica Schumer ended her service as chief of staff and general counsel of the Council of Economic Advisers.
2015: Reid announced retirement
In 2015, Harry Reid announced his retirement.
2015: Schumer-Portman Senate Bill Proposes Tax on Multinational Corporations
In 2015, the Charles Schumer-Rob Portman Senate bill proposed to tax the $2.2 trillion multinational corporations were holding outside the country in tax-haven subsidiaries at a rate lower than the statutory corporate rate.
March 2016: Call for Hearings on Merrick Garland Nomination
In March 2016, after Obama nominated Merrick Garland to the Supreme Court, Chuck Schumer urged Mitch McConnell and Chuck Grassley to hold hearings, allowing the American public to assess whether Merrick Garland belonged on the court.
October 2016: Lost Confidence in Comey
In October 2016, Schumer said he had lost confidence in FBI director James Comey after the reopening of an investigation into Hillary Clinton's emails.
November 2016: Warning to Trump on Supreme Court Nominations
In November 2016, Chuck Schumer stated that Democrats would challenge President-elect Trump if his Supreme Court nominees were not mainstream, citing Republicans' actions in blocking the Garland nomination.
November 2016: Elected Minority Leader
In November 2016, the Senate Democratic Caucus elected Schumer minority leader.
November 2016: Comments on Relationship with Trump
In a November 2016 interview, Chuck Schumer stated that he and Trump were not friends and had only had "civil conversations a couple of times" when Trump had initiated contact.
December 2016: Call for Trump Cabinet Nominees to Release Tax Returns
In December 2016, Chuck Schumer called on Trump cabinet nominees to release their tax returns, following the precedent set by Steve Mnuchin and Tom Price.
December 2016: Schumer Demands Inquiry into Russian Meddling
In December 2016, Chuck Schumer demanded a congressional inquiry into Russian meddling in U.S. affairs, reflecting growing concern over foreign interference.
2016: Democratic Party Assessment
After the 2016 presidential election, Schumer said the Democratic Party lost due to not having "a strong, bold economic message".
2016: Reelected to Senate
In 2016, Chuck Schumer was reelected to the Senate with 70% of the vote.
2016: Elected Democratic Leader
In 2016, Chuck Schumer was unanimously elected Democratic leader.
January 2017: Schumer's Response to Intelligence Community Doubters
In January 2017, Chuck Schumer responded to those questioning the U.S. intelligence community's assessments, warning of potential repercussions for taking on the intelligence community.
February 2017: Schumer on North Korea and China
In February 2017, Chuck Schumer asserted that North Korea was irresponsible and suggested using China to curtail North Korea's actions, as most of North Korea's trade went through China.
February 2017: Criticism of Trump's Governance
In February 2017, Chuck Schumer predicted that Trump's speech to Congress would be less memorable due to the disparity between Trump's words and his administration's actions, characterizing Trump's governance as pro-corporate and hard-right.
March 2017: Opposition to Neil Gorsuch Nomination
In March 2017, Chuck Schumer announced he would vote against the confirmation of Trump's Supreme Court nominee, Neil Gorsuch, and called on Democrats to block an up-or-down vote, suggesting the nominee should be changed if they couldn't secure 60 votes. He also argued against changing the rules to force a vote.
March 2017: Call for Apology Over Wiretapping Claims
In March 2017, Chuck Schumer called on Trump to apologize for claiming the Obama administration had wiretapped him, urging Trump to stop tweeting and focus on governing, and stating that Trump had "severely damaged his credibility."
April 2017: Schumer Calls for Caution in Afghanistan
In April 2017, Chuck Schumer called for caution in Afghanistan, noting the casualties in Iraq, and said the military would have to come to Congress if it wanted more American soldiers in Afghanistan.
April 2017: Schumer on Shayrat Missile Strike
In April 2017, after the Shayrat missile strike, Chuck Schumer said a "pinpointed, limited action to punish and hopefully deter Assad from doing this again is appropriate" while warning against the United States becoming further involved in Syria.
May 2017: Schumer Calls for Release of Trump-Russia Meeting Transcripts
In May 2017, Chuck Schumer called on the White House to release unedited transcripts of the meeting between Trump and Russian officials, expressing doubts about the President's handling of classified information.
May 2017: Co-sponsorship of Israel Anti-Boycott Act
In May 2017, Chuck Schumer co-sponsored the Israel Anti-Boycott Act, Senate Bill 720, which aimed to criminalize participation in boycotts against Israel and Israeli settlements, carrying a maximum sentence of 20 years imprisonment.
May 2017: Schumer on the American Health Care Act
In May 2017, Chuck Schumer criticized the American Health Care Act, stating that it left Americans with pre-existing conditions vulnerable and requesting a bipartisan meeting to find solutions.
May 2017: Commented on Comey's Firing
In May 2017, after President Trump fired Comey, Schumer pondered whether the investigation into Russian collusion was "getting too close to home for the president".
July 2017: Schumer Votes for Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act
In July 2017, Chuck Schumer voted for the Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act, which grouped together sanctions against Iran, Russia, and North Korea.
November 2017: Defense of Net Neutrality
In November 2017, Chuck Schumer emphasized the importance of net neutrality for job growth and the economy in the 21st century, likening it to the free highway system of the 20th century and criticizing its repeal as a "disaster".
November 2017: Announced Funding for Head Start Programs
In November 2017, Schumer and Gillibrand announced $1,908,486 in funding for Head Start and Early Head Start programs in Erie County.
2017: Led Senate Democratic Caucus
In 2017, Chuck Schumer began leading the Senate Democratic Caucus.
2017: Schumer Calls for U.S. Support for Kurdish Independence
In 2017, Chuck Schumer was the first senator to call for U.S. support for Kurdish independence after the 2017 Kurdistan Region independence referendum, releasing a resolution calling for the U.S. government to change its policy to "support a political process that addresses the aspirations of the Kurds for an independent state".
2017: Schumer Advocates for Blocking China from Purchasing American Companies
In 2017, Chuck Schumer wrote to Trump advocating for a block on China that would prevent it from purchasing more American companies to increase pressure on Beijing to help rein in North Korea's nuclear missile program.
2017: End of time as Vice Chair of Democratic Caucus
In 2017, Chuck Schumer's time as Vice Chair of the Democratic Caucus ended.
January 2018: Push for Resolution Overturning FCC Vote
In January 2018, Chuck Schumer announced that all 49 Democratic caucus members supported a resolution to overturn the FCC vote on net neutrality, challenging Republicans to side with consumers over big ISPs and corporations.
January 2018: Criticized Republicans on Mueller Investigation
In January 2018, Schumer criticized Republicans for their views on the FBI and their efforts to discredit Mueller's investigation.
January 2018: Requested Veteran Affairs to Complete Acquisitions
In January 2018, Schumer requested that the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs complete acquisitions for parcels in Pembroke, New York, and initiate construction of the New Western New York National Veterans Cemetery.
January 2018: DACA and Border Wall Negotiations
In January 2018, Schumer stated that any agreement on DACA would have 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 recipients of DACA, but Trump declined the offer. Later in January 2018, conversations on immigration and border security resumed between the White House and Schumer.
February 2018: Schumer on Background Checks After Stoneman Douglas Shooting
In February 2018, Chuck Schumer and other Democratic senators signed a letter urging President Trump to endorse legislation requiring background checks on all gun purchases after the Stoneman Douglas High School shooting.
March 2018: Schumer Presses Trump to Focus More on China
In March 2018, Chuck Schumer and other Democratic leaders pressed Trump to focus more on China, stating that "China has stolen millions of jobs and trillions of dollars [but] administrations from both parties haven't been strong enough to fight back."
March 2018: Schumer on Israeli Settlements
In March 2018, Chuck Schumer told AIPAC delegates that Israeli settlements in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, have nothing to do with the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, a statement reflecting his stance on the issue.
March 2018: Support for Bipartisan Legislation Aiding Children of Deceased First Responders
In March 2018, Schumer voiced his support for the bipartisan legislation sponsored by Bob Casey and Pat Toomey, aimed at assisting the children of deceased first responders in affording college by increasing the availability of Pell grant funding.
April 2018: Support for Cannabis Decriminalization
In April 2018, Chuck Schumer announced his support for efforts to decriminalize cannabis at the federal level and sponsored legislation to remove cannabis from the Controlled Substances Act, also including funding for women and minority-owned businesses and cannabis research.
May 2018: Schumer's Comments on the North Korea-United States Summit Coin
In May 2018, Chuck Schumer advocated for Kim Jong-un's removal from the commemorative coin memorializing the 2018 North Korea-United States summit, referring to Kim as a "brutal dictator".
May 2018: Schumer Praises Trump for Jerusalem Embassy Opening
In May 2018, Chuck Schumer praised President Trump for opening the U.S. embassy in Jerusalem, noting he had sponsored legislation to do so two decades prior. He had previously criticized Trump for delaying the move.
May 2018: Schumer on Trump's Willingness to Ease Sanctions on ZTE
In May 2018, after Trump signaled his willingness to ease sanctions on ZTE in a bid for a trade deal with Beijing, Chuck Schumer observed that Democrats and Republicans were coming together to tell the president to be tough on China.
June 2018: Schumer Decries Harassment of Trump Administration Members
In June 2018, Chuck Schumer gave a Senate floor speech where he strongly disagreed with Representative Maxine Waters' call to harass members of the Trump administration as protest, stating that no one should call for the harassment of political opponents, advocating instead for organizing and voting them out of office.
June 2018: Said Roberts was demeaning the Supreme Court
In June 2018, Schumer said Roberts was demeaning the Supreme Court as it became more political.
June 27, 2018: Introduction of Marijuana Freedom and Opportunity Act
On June 27, 2018, Chuck Schumer formally introduced the Marijuana Freedom and Opportunity Act.
July 2018: Schumer Spearheads Resolution on Russian Questioning of US Officials
In July 2018, Chuck Schumer spearheaded a resolution warning President Trump against allowing Russia to question US diplomats and officials. The resolution passed unanimously, reflecting widespread concern.
July 2018: Schumer Confronts Warner on Facebook Issues
In July 2018, Schumer confronted Senator Mark Warner, urging him not to lose sight of the need for Facebook to tackle problems with right-wing disinformation and election interference, as well as consumer privacy and other issues. As of 2018, one of Schumer's daughters worked as a marketing manager at Facebook.
July 2018: Schumer Condemns Trump's Comments on Russian-German Gas Pipeline
In July 2018, after Trump criticized Germany's decision to approve a new Russian-German gas pipeline, Chuck 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: Call for Scrutiny of Brett Kavanaugh
In July 2018, after Trump nominated Brett Kavanaugh, Chuck Schumer insisted Kavanaugh should be questioned directly about the precedent set by Roe v. Wade and other cases, also pointing out Kavanaugh's past opinions that could suggest he would not hold Trump accountable.
July 2018: Advocated for Garland Nomination
In July 2018, it was reported that Chuck Schumer had advocated that Trump nominate Merrick Garland to attract bipartisan support, contrasting it with nominating someone controversial on issues like the Affordable Care Act and Roe v. Wade.
August 2018: Schumer Responds to Trump's "Disloyal" Charge Against Jewish Democrats
In August 2018, Chuck Schumer responded to Donald Trump's charge that American Jews who vote for Democrats are "disloyal", tweeting that Trump's use of a trope that has been used against the Jewish people for centuries is encouraging anti-Semites.
August 2018: Senate Passes Funding for Firefighter Cancer Registry
In August 2018, 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. Schumer stated firefighters needed "first-rate medical care and treatment" for their work and the registry would help "researchers track, treat, and eventually prevent firefighters being stricken by cancer" in August 2018.
2018: Became a Grandfather
In 2018, Chuck Schumer became a grandfather when his daughter, Jessica, gave birth to a son.
2018: Concern Over Supreme Court Replacement
In 2018, after Supreme Court Justice Anthony Kennedy retired, Chuck Schumer expressed concern regarding Trump's choice of replacement, fearing they would attempt to overturn Roe v. Wade.
January 2019: Schumer Introduces Background Check Expansion Act
In January 2019, Chuck Schumer introduced the Background Check Expansion Act, which aimed to require background checks for all firearm sales or transfers, including those by unlicensed sellers, with certain exceptions.
March 2019: Letter Regarding Dairy Farmers
In March 2019, Chuck Schumer was one of 38 senators who signed a letter to U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue about dairy farmers.
March 2020: Controversial Statements About Gorsuch and Kavanaugh
In March 2020, Chuck Schumer faced criticism for his statements made at a rally regarding Supreme Court justices Neil Gorsuch and Brett Kavanaugh, warning they would "pay the price" and "unleash a whirlwind" if they voted against abortion rights. These comments were widely condemned, leading to an apology from Schumer.
October 2020: Schumer Calls for Suspension of U.S. Military Aid to Azerbaijan
In October 2020, Chuck Schumer called on the Trump administration to immediately suspend U.S. military aid to Azerbaijan, sent through the Pentagon's "building partner assistance program", citing concerns about its use in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. He co-signed a letter stating such.
November 2020: Schumer Announces New Stance on Eliminating Student Debt
In November 2020, Chuck Schumer announced a new stance on eliminating student debt, proposing with Elizabeth Warren that the first $50,000 of debt be vanquished and suggesting that Joe Biden could achieve this with executive action.
January 6, 2021: Schumer's Reaction to the U.S. Capitol Attack
On January 6, 2021, during the certification of the 2021 United States Electoral College vote count, Chuck Schumer and other members of Congress were removed from the Senate chambers due to the attack on the U.S. Capitol by Trump supporters. 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 secure, Schumer called it a day that will live forever in infamy and blamed Trump for the attack, calling on Vice President Mike Pence to invoke the Twenty-fifth Amendment and also said he would support impeachment.
January 2021: Became Senate Majority Leader
In January 2021, Chuck Schumer became Senate majority leader, making him the first Jewish Senate leader in U.S. history.
January 20, 2021: Democrats Gained Control of Senate
On January 20, 2021, Democrats gained control of the Senate, making Schumer the majority leader.
July 14, 2021: Release of Cannabis Administration and Opportunity Act
On July 14, 2021, Chuck Schumer, along with Senators Ron Wyden and Cory Booker, released the Cannabis Administration and Opportunity Act for public comment.
2021: Became Senate Majority Leader
In 2021, Chuck Schumer became the Senate majority leader.
July 21, 2022: Introduction of 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, becoming the longest-serving U.S. senator from New York.
2022: Legislative Initiatives
In 2022, as majority leader, Chuck Schumer shepherded through the Senate major legislative initiatives such as the Inflation Reduction Act.
October 2023: Schumer Leads Bipartisan Delegation Visit to China
In October 2023, Chuck Schumer led a bipartisan congressional delegation's visit to China, meeting with President Xi Jinping and other officials. Schumer stated that America wants fairness and stability and emphasized the need for a level playing field for American businesses and workers.
November 21, 2023: 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's Senate Speech on Netanyahu
On March 14, 2024, Chuck Schumer stated in a Senate speech that Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu was an impediment to peace and called for elections to replace him. He cited civilian deaths in Gaza as causing declining international support for Israel.
February 2025: DOJ Investigation Announced
In February 2025, the interim U.S. Attorney for Washington D.C., Ed Martin, announced the Department of Justice was launching an investigation.
2025: Began stint as Senate minority leader
In 2025, Chuck Schumer began a stint as Senate minority leader.
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.
