It was not that long ago that Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer was the rumor of a potential primary challenge from his left flank — maybe even U.S. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.

But on Tuesday, Schumer received the backing of the Working Families Party, a progressive ballot line that has supported primary challengers to establishment Democrats in New York. 

The party in its endorsement pointed to Schumer's backing of measures like the Build Back Better Act, measures meant to make it easier to vote and the cancellation of student debt, as well as his efforts for debt relief for taxi workers in New York City. 

“Chuck Schumer has been a reliable partner in the work to strengthen democracy and make deep investments in working class families. Up against some steep political hurdles, Senator Schumer has kept up the fight to pass Build Back Better, the Freedom to Vote Act, and provide debt relief for working people,” said Sochie Nnaemeka, Director of the New York Working Families Party. “With a Working Families majority in Congress, we’re confident we can get this essential legislation over the finish line.”

Schumer has avoided a strong primary challenge from the left as he has also faced broader challenges in Washington and as Democrats fight to retain control of its narrow advantage in the U.S. Senate. The chamber is currently split 50-50, with Vice President Kamala Harris serving as the tie-breaking vote. 

"Working together, we secured billions in state and local aid for our subways, schools and hospitals; delivered historic aid for immigrants and tenants and the unemployed; and drove down hunger and childhood poverty," Schumer said. "I look forward to continued work with the WFP to implement progressive policy changes—from canceling student debt, to addressing income and racial inequality, and tackling the urgent crisis of climate change. We have accomplished so much together and have much more vital work to do."

The Working Families Party earlier this month endorsed New York City Public Advocate Jumaane Williams' bid for governor over incumbent Kathy Hochul.