Rep. Ro Khanna is openly challenging the leadership of Sen. Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, advocating for a shift towards more dynamic and bold leadership within the Democratic Party. During an appearance on NBC's "Meet the Press" with host Kristen Welker, Khanna expressed his dissatisfaction with Schumer, suggesting that the current Minority Leader has failed to inspire Democratic voters and is out of touch with the party's base.

“The question is what is the future of Democratic leadership. Who is going to be effective? And most Democrats around the country just don't think that person is Chuck Schumer,” Khanna stated. He criticized Schumer for lacking boldness and moral clarity on key issues, including his historical support for the Iraq war and his recent hesitations on healthcare reforms.

Khanna’s remarks followed a Senate vote that advanced a House-passed stopgap measure, which saw only minimal support from Democrats and highlighted internal divisions. Khanna accused Schumer of being ineffective in rallying party support and leadership during this critical vote.

In contrast, Khanna highlighted several other Democrats as exemplary leaders. He praised Senator Chris Murphy (Conn.) as a “top leader” and described Senators Cory Booker (N.J.) and Brian Schatz (Hawaii) as “dynamic.” He also expressed appreciation for Senator Elizabeth Warren (Mass.) and her progressive ideologies.

However, some Democrats have defended Schumer’s leadership amidst this internal critique. Senator Tim Kaine (D-Va.), in a separate interview with Welker, described Schumer as an “effective leader” under challenging circumstances, given the Democrats' minority status in the Senate. “Being the minority leader is tough,” Kaine noted, emphasizing the independent nature of senators and the complexity of managing such a diverse group.

Kaine also remarked on the autonomy of congressional leadership roles, suggesting that House representatives, such as Khanna, should focus on their chamber's leadership rather than the Senate's, encouraging them to concentrate on advancing legislative priorities to keep the country moving forward.

As the debate over Democratic leadership continues, Khanna’s call for change underscores a growing sentiment within parts of the party for more assertive and connected leadership in the face of ongoing political challenges. Whether this will lead to significant shifts in the party’s leadership structure remains to be seen.