Chuck Schumer: I Will Vote Against Jeff Sessions

Politico reports:

New York Sen. Chuck Schumer, the top Senate Democrat, said Thursday he will vote against Jeff Sessions for attorney general — saying he had concerns about whether the Alabama senator could be a sufficient check on Donald Trump.

Schumer has repeatedly said he and Sessions are on good terms and regularly ride bikes together at the senators-only gym. But Schumer also stressed concerns about whether the conservative Sessions could fairly represent all Americans, considering his views on issues such as immigration and gay rights.

“After reviewing his record and giving careful consideration to his answers during the hearing, I am not confident in Senator Sessions’ ability to be a defender of the rights of all Americans, or to serve as an independent check on the incoming administration,” Schumer said in a statement early Thursday.

No Republicans have said they will oppose Sessions. It’s a done deal.

I will oppose Senator Sessions’ nomination to serve as the next Attorney General.

— Chuck Schumer (@SenSchumer) January 12, 2017