The stunning and fierce revolt against Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) for backing down from Republicans in a shutdown battle is being magnified by the resounding silence from Democrats refusing to come to his defense.

Democrats, including House leaders and senators, repeatedly declined to answer questions on whether they maintain confidence in Schumer as Senate Democratic leader. The lack of response only compounded the outrage, primary threats, and calls for his ouster from within the fractured party.