The New York Times has an interesting look at Sen. Charles Schumer (D-N.Y.) going to bat for Sen. Kirsten Gilliband (D-N.Y.), the Empire State’s newest senator.
Ms. Gillibrand faces steep challenges as she tries to win over skeptical Democrats after a shaky debut as the state’s new senator. But in ways that are surprising and angering her rivals in the party, Mr. Schumer has quietly made her success his cause too.
There is no question that Schumer has considerable clout both in New York and in D.C. But the article raises an obvious question: What does it mean for Schumer is Gillibrand fails? There is a pretty high probability that Gillibrand will be challenged in the primary (see Carolyn Maloney’s first quarter fundraising here and Steve Israel’s war chest here). On top of that, Gillibrand’s numbers have been sliding slightly.
Having Schumer in her corner is definitely good for Gillibrand, but, like all things in politics, there will likely be ramifications for Schumer if things don’t pan out how he wants them to.