House Democrat Hammers Chuck Schumer: ‘This Is Why Your Numbers Are Toxic With the Base’ 

Rep. Ro Khanna (D-CA) took the rare step of absolutely hammering fellow Democrat and Sen. Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) on Tuesday night after the senator equivocated on an antiwar resolution.

Sen. Tim Kaine (D-VA) is introducing a resolution to try to prevent President Donald Trump from joining Israel in its attacks on Iran without first consulting Congress. Last week, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities and the assassinations of top military leaders and nuclear scientists. Initially, Trump urged Netanyahu against attacking Iran, pending talks between the Iranians and Trump’s Middle East envoy, but the president has warmed up to the attacks and signaled he may order the U.S. military to join.

“I am deeply concerned that the recent escalation of hostilities between Israel and Iran could quickly pull the United States into another endless conflict,” Kaine told NBC News. A spokesperson for the senator said Kaine is trying to get co-sponsors for the war powers resolution.

NBC asked Schumer if he supports Kaine’s efforts, but did not answer directly.

“I believe Congress and Senate Democrats, if necessary, will not hesitate to exercise our authority,” he said.

The remark set Khanna off, who expressed his displeasure on social media while quote-tweeting Schumer’s comment.

“What in the world does this mean ⁦@SenSchumer⁩?” Khanna asked, tagging Schumer. “‘I believe Congress and Senate Democrats, if necessary, will not hesitate to exercise our authority.’ This is why your numbers are toxic with our base. They want us to be the anti-war party again.”

Schumer has been one of Israel’s staunchest defenders. “My job,” he told The New York Times in March, “is to keep the left pro-Israel.” The senator’s numbers have been dropping as many in the Democratic base feel his response to Trump’s second term has been inadequate.

Khanna has signed onto a measure similar resolution in the House by Rep. Thomas Massie (R-KY).

“It’s time for every member to go on record,” Khanna posted. “Are you with the neocons who led us into Iraq or do you stand with the American people?”