Senator-elect Dave McCormick is attending Senate orientation despite Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer’s refusal to invite him. McCormick was declared the winner of Pennsylvania’s Senate race last week, but Schumer claims the results remain undecided.
McCormick leads Democratic incumbent Sen. Bob Casey by more than 30,000 votes, a margin that prompted the Associated Press to call the race on November 7. Schumer argues that over 100,000 ballots remain uncounted, delaying formal recognition of McCormick’s win.
Republican leaders are slamming Schumer’s actions, accusing him of ignoring clear election results. “Schumer and Senate Democrats are denying the election results,” said Sen. John Barrasso (R-WY). “Blocking McCormick…is an outrage.”
National Republican Senatorial Committee Chairman Steve Daines (R-MT) echoed the sentiment, stating that McCormick’s attendance is essential to ensuring Pennsylvania’s representation in the new Republican-controlled Senate.
With Republicans poised to assume the Senate majority in January, McCormick’s decision to attend orientation sends a strong message. “Dave McCormick is the new senator for Pennsylvania,” said Senate Minority Whip John Thune (R-SD). “This obstruction is unacceptable.”
The dispute highlights the growing partisan tensions as Republicans prepare to lead the Senate. McCormick’s determination reflects the GOP’s broader effort to solidify their majority and move past Democratic resistance.
