
Senator-elect Dave McCormick will attend Senate orientation this week, challenging Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer’s refusal to recognize his election win. McCormick, declared the winner by the Associated Press, is moving forward despite Schumer’s objections.
McCormick defeated Democratic incumbent Sen. Bob Casey by over 30,000 votes in Pennsylvania, but Schumer argues the race is unresolved due to uncounted ballots. Casey has also refused to concede, adding to the dispute.
Republican leaders are blasting Schumer’s actions, accusing him of denying legitimate election results. “Schumer and Senate Democrats are denying the election results in Pennsylvania,” said Sen. John Barrasso (R-WY). “Blocking McCormick from orientation is an outrage.”
National Republican Senatorial Committee Chairman Steve Daines (R-MT) joined the criticism, calling Schumer’s refusal “a disservice to Pennsylvania & the country.” Republicans argue that McCormick’s attendance is crucial as they prepare to take the Senate majority in January.
The Associated Press called the race on November 7, two days after Election Day, confirming McCormick’s lead. Republicans see Schumer’s resistance as an attempt to delay the inevitable transfer of power.
McCormick’s decision to attend orientation underscores his readiness to serve Pennsylvania and support the GOP’s agenda. The ongoing conflict highlights the deepening divide between the parties as Republicans move to assume control of the Senate.