Schumer’s handpicked Senate recruits trail primary challengers in early fundraising

Published April 17, 2026 6:00am ET



Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer’s (D-NY) top Senate recruits across multiple 2026 battlegrounds are being outraised by primary challengers running explicitly against the Democratic establishment.

The pattern, playing out in states such as Maine, Michigan, and Iowa, underscores the growing influence of grassroots donors and a willingness among Democratic voters to look beyond candidates backed by party leadership.

Trusted reporting.Unlimited access.

Subscribe for full access to Washington Examiner coverage, expert political analysis, and subscriber-only journalism.

Get Unlimited Access

Already a member? Log in

Cancel anytime.