'Who the Hell Is Leading?' — Trump Mocks Democratic Leadership

President Criticizes Democrats at Cabinet Meeting

WASHINGTON – As the government shutdown reached its ninth day, President Donald Trump used a White House Cabinet meeting to launch new attacks on Democratic leaders, claiming uncertainty about who truly holds power within the party. “We really don’t know who the hell is leading” them, Trump said, according to USA TODAY. Joe Rondone / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Ocasio-Cortez Called More Influential Than Jeffries

Trump took particular aim at House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.), suggesting that Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) now wields greater influence among Democrats. “She’s taking Hakeem Jeffries’ place,” he remarked. The comment follows a series of online attacks from Trump directed at Jeffries, including what USA TODAY described as “offensive and vulgar memes” stemming from a failed Oval Office meeting between the two men prior to the shutdown. Michael Karas-NorthJersey.com / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Schumer Predicted to Retire Before 2028

Trump also speculated that Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) might retire before his next election cycle. “Schumer’s afraid that she’s going to run against him,” Trump said, referring again to Ocasio-Cortez. Schumer, who has led Senate Democrats through the shutdown, dismissed any suggestion of retirement earlier this year. “I am focused on winning, as I have always been,” he told CNN in April, adding, “I am staying put.” Jack Gruber-USA TODAY

Ocasio-Cortez Rejects 2028 Speculation

Despite Trump’s remarks, Ocasio-Cortez has not expressed interest in a Senate run. Serving in the House since 2019, she remains a leading progressive voice on Capitol Hill. In response to speculation about her political future, she told NBC News, “Nobody cares about some election years from now. They care about if their kids can get insulin, if they can put food on the table.” Josh Morgan / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Broader Context

Trump’s remarks come as tensions deepen in Washington over the prolonged shutdown and stalled budget negotiations. His criticism reflects ongoing partisan divides—and hints at the internal pressures shaping both parties’ leadership as they navigate the political fallout. GREG LOVETT/PALM BEACH POST / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images