Schumer's October gift for embattled Senate Democrats

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer has strategically scheduled the Senate vote on government funding to allow vulnerable incumbent senators ample time to campaign for re-election. This move is crucial as being an incumbent offers significant advantages, including the ability to actively engage with voters in their home districts. Schumer recognizes the importance of getting his incumbents back to their states as soon as possible, particularly those facing challenging re-election campaigns, such as Jon Tester and Sherrod Brown. In contrast, former Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell kept senators in Washington until late October in 2020, leaving his incumbents with only eight days to campaign, resulting in four defeats. Similarly, in 2000, Senate Majority Leader Trent Lott gave his incumbents just six days to campaign, leading to five losses. In 2022, senators had a much longer campaign window, with 40 days available for campaigning. This extended period ultimately benefited both Democrats and Republicans, with all incumbent senators on the ballot winning their re-election bids. Schumer's strategy seems to have paid off, allowing vulnerable Democrats to solidify their seats and potentially benefitting vulnerable Republicans as well.