Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., said President Donald Trump's decision to freeze government spending was his first of many screwups.
Trump later rescinded the memo, but Schumer told Semafor Trump's decision was "the best thing that's happened to Democrats."
"I didn't know he'd screw up so soon," Schumer told Semafor. "There's a long way to go. This is going to be a pattern."
Schumer said he has learned over the years how to best resist Trump. Republicans hold a three-seat majority in the Senate, and Democrats face long odds to take back the upper chamber in 2026.
"We're not going to fall for the Bannon 'flood the zone,'" he told Semafor, referencing Steve Bannon's call for Trump to overwhelm Democrats with numerous executive orders.
The New York senator has supported some of Trump's Cabinet nominees, instructing Democrats to train their fire on Tulsi Gabbard's nomination for director of national intelligence, Robert F. Kennedy to lead Health & Human Services, and Pete Hegseth for secretary of defense.
Known for still using a flip phone, Schumer has popularity among his caucus and told Semafor he'll stay on as leader "as long as I'm good at it."
Schumer said he plans to focus Democrats' messaging on the Republican's tax cut plan, highlighting the tax breaks the wealthy and big corporations will receive, Semafor reported.
"It's going to flop for them politically," Schumer said.
The minority leader said he has yet to meet with Republican counterpart, Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D.
Sam Barron ✉
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