El-Sayed says he'd back Van Hollen over Schumer for Senate majority leader

Sen.-elect Abdul El-Sayed, D-Mich., said Thursday he would support Sen. Chris Van Hollen, D-Md., for Senate majority leader over Chuck Schumer if Van Hollen challenged for the post — a fresh sign of progressive discontent with Schumer even after Democrats' midterm sweep.

Speaking to CNN, El-Sayed said he has been "very clear" that Van Hollen "would be an amazing Senate majority leader," while hinting Van Hollen may have his eye on a presidential run instead. Schumer has said he expects to be re-elected majority leader by the Democratic caucus and, as of Thursday evening, did not appear to face an announced challenger. Van Hollen has not declared a leadership bid. El-Sayed's comments come hours after video of his confrontational exchange with a Sky News reporter circulated widely.