POLITICO's Inside Congress newsletter reports that Sen. Chris Van Hollen's official challenge to Chuck Schumer for Senate Democratic leader has put the caucus in a divisive fight despite its bigger-than-expected November 2026 majority, with Bernie Sanders backing Van Hollen while Schumer claims he has the votes. It also covers committee contests — Maxine Waters facing Sean Casten, Virginia Democrats backing Bobby Scott — plus Jack Smith's fight against Bill Hagerty's disbarment bid and Ted Cruz's postponed AI briefing.