Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer affirmed Wednesday that he plans to seek reelection as the top Democrat in the chamber, telling Politico he is "running for re-election for leader. Period."

The New York Democrat made the comments as lawmakers wrapped up work before the Nov. 3 midterms, during which his party hopes to regain the Senate majority it lost after the 2024 elections. Schumer, 75, also spoke to other outlets and projected confidence that Democrats hold an edge in several tossup races despite a challenging fundraising environment.

"It's 50-50. We're right on the edge of winning," Schumer said in remarks reported across multiple outlets. He added that Democrats are "totally unified" and have the "wind in their sails" heading into the final stretch.

Several Democratic Senate nominees in competitive races have publicly stated they would not back Schumer for another term as leader. These include candidates in Maine, Michigan, and Minnesota who emerged from primaries with support from progressive and anti-establishment voters. Schumer has downplayed such divisions, insisting the caucus remains focused on victory.

The minority leader also warned that Republicans could attempt to "steal the election" and pointed to what he described as an "obscene" or "almost obscene" GOP financial advantage. Democrats have trailed in some fundraising metrics heading into the closing weeks.

Schumer declined to discuss his own 2028 reelection plans and tempered expectations about the scale of any Democratic gains this cycle. He noted that control of the Senate would allow the party greater ability to counter policies from the Trump administration on issues including costs, health care, and immigration enforcement.

The comments come amid broader questions about Democratic leadership stability following the party's 2024 setbacks. Schumer has held the top Senate Democratic post since 2017 and is seeking what would be a sixth consecutive term in the role.