Schumer seen as top candidate to succeed Reid

March 27, 2015 By Paula Katinas Brooklyn Daily Eagle

U.S. Sen. Charles Schumer. Photo by Bill Kotsatos

Share this:

U.S. Sen. Charles Schumer, who has worked side by side for several years with U.S. Sen. Harry Reid, is the top contender to succeed the Nevada Democrat as the chamber’s minority leader, according to several news reports.

CNN was among the major media outlets reporting that Schumer will seek the minority leader’s post and that he would start making phone calls to fellow Democrats in the Senate looking to secure support.

The Senate majority and minority leaders are elected by members of their respective parties.

The Washington Post reported that Reid has endorsed Schumer to succeed him.

U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin (D-Illinois) is also said to be interested in becoming the Senate’s Democratic leader.

Reid announced on Friday that he will not be seeking re-election to the Senate in 2016.

If the Democrats gain back control of the Senate in the 2016 election, then the Democratic minority leader would become the majority leader.

On Friday, Schumer quickly issued a statement praising Reid. “Harry is one of the best human beings I’ve ever met. His character and fundamental decency are at the core of why he’s been such a successful and beloved leader,” Schumer stated.

“He’s so respected by our caucus for his strength, his legislative acumen, his honesty and his determination. He has left a major mark on this body, this country, and on so many who have met him, gotten to know him, and love him,” New York’s senior senator stated.

The New York Times broke the story of Reid’s decision to retire.

“I want to be able to go out at the top of my game. I don’t want to be a 42-year-old trying to become a designated hitter,” Reid told the Times.