Mr. President, let me say a few words about a great leader who has just retired--AFSCME president Lee Saunders. Today, I will pay tribute to a dear friend and a juggernaut for labor who recently began a well-deserved retirement--AFSCME president Lee Saunders. On Monday, there will be a celebration of Lee and all his work for the labor movement over the years. It will be quite a party. I am grateful to have known Lee for decades and have always been in awe of his steadfastness in defending working people.
2026 MidtermsSafe SeatD+15$598K raised
Chuck Schumer
Senator · New York · Democrat
Chuck Schumer
Healthcare Costs · Consumer Financial Protection · National Security · Tax Policy
Senate Floor
Recent comments in the Senate
Mr. President, on the Trump media ban, you can tell Trump's desperate, repressive media ban is flagrantly unconstitutional when it gets blocked by a judge he appointed. Trump can attack the First Amendment all he wants, but the roots of our democracy run deeper than he could ever fathom. No President should be able to use censorship to escape accountability, to deprive Americans of the truth, and to take our country down the path to authoritarianism. Is Trump so fragile, so thin-skinned, so desperate that he can't handle reporting that reflects the truth that he doesn't want to hear?
Mr. President, on the fertilizing bill, Trump's terrible economy has been anything but fertile ground for American farmers. Today, along with Senator Klobuchar, I am announcing the Strategic Fertilizer Reserve Act to ensure farmers have access to the resources they need to feed our Nation's people and our economy. Our farmers are getting crushed from all sides by this administration. Trump's blunder in Iran has jacked up the price of fertilizer and diesel to record highs, making it harder for farmers to do their jobs, from planting to harvest.
Biography
Raised in Brooklyn, Chuck Schumer began his public service in the New York State Assembly before building a reputation as an effective legislator in Congress. Elected as U.S. Senator for New York in 1998, he has focused on infrastructure investment, gun safety, and expanding access to health care. As Senate Majority Leader, Schumer played a central role in passing the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and shepherding COVID-19 relief legislation. He is known for his strategic leadership and dedication to advancing priorities that reflect the needs of New Yorkers and the nation.
Education
- J.D. with Honors, Harvard Law School1974
- B.A., Magna cum laude, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA1971
Professional History
U.S. Senator
1981–PresentRepresenting New York in the Senate
Member, New York Assembly
1974–80
Policy Focus
Congress20%
Arts, Culture, Religion2%
Taxation1%
Health1%
Notable Legislation
Key legislative actions from Chuck Schumer's record in Congress.
9/11 Victim Compensation Fund
Helped secure funding and extensions for the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund for first responders and survivors.
COVID-19 Relief Legislation
Led passage of the American Rescue Plan Act, providing pandemic relief funding for individuals, businesses, and local governments.
Infrastructure Investment
Championed the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, directing billions to upgrade New York’s roads, bridges, and public transit.
Gun Safety Legislation
Co-authored the Brady Handgun Violence Prevention Act, establishing federal background checks for firearm purchases.
Committee Assignments
View details →- Senate Committee on Rules and Administration
- Senate Select Committee on IntelligenceEx Officio
Sen. Chuck Schumer FAQ
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