Overview

• Sen. Brian Schatz has formally declared his candidacy for Senate Democratic whip, securing endorsements from key colleagues including Cory Booker, Mark Kelly, and Jacky Rosen.
• Schatz currently stands as the only formal candidate, with no declared challengers, though Amy Klobuchar and Patty Murray are seen as potential contenders.
• Klobuchar and Elizabeth Warren have criticized the early campaigning, arguing that the focus should remain on addressing President Trump’s agenda and the upcoming midterms.
• Senate Minority Whip Dick Durbin and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer have both opted to remain neutral in the race to preserve caucus unity.
• The internal election for the whip position is scheduled to take place after the November 2026 midterms, leaving significant time for additional candidates to emerge.