Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer has refused to invite Senator-elect Dave McCormick to Senate orientation, claiming the Pennsylvania Senate race is undecided despite the Associated Press declaring McCormick the winner. McCormick plans to attend the sessions regardless, calling Schumer’s attempt to block him unacceptable.
McCormick, a Republican, defeated Democratic incumbent Bob Casey by more than 30,000 votes. However, Schumer has insisted that over 100,000 ballots remain uncounted and says it is too soon to declare a winner. Casey has also refused to concede, fueling the dispute.
Republican senators quickly rallied around McCormick, slamming Schumer’s refusal as undemocratic. Senate Minority Whip John Thune (R-SD) said, “Dave McCormick is the new senator for Pennsylvania. The idea that Schumer would not allow him to participate in Senate orientation is beyond unacceptable.”
Sen. John Barrasso (R-WY) echoed the sentiment, accusing Senate Democrats of trying to “deny the election results” and calling for Casey to concede immediately. NRSC Chairman Steve Daines (R-MT) took to social media, describing Schumer’s actions as “outrageous & a disservice to PA & the country.”
The Associated Press called the race on November 7, two days after Election Day, confirming McCormick’s decisive lead. Republicans argue that Schumer’s refusal to accept the results is a desperate attempt to cling to power as the Senate shifts to GOP control in January.
McCormick’s decision to attend orientation underscores his commitment to representing Pennsylvania in the Senate. With the GOP poised to assume the majority, the controversy surrounding Schumer’s actions highlights the partisan divides that will shape the next legislative session.
