How Adam Schiff Stand Against Trump is Powering His Senate Bid

California Congressman Adam Schiff has represented the state’s 28th district since 2001 but may soon take his political career to the next level. Running to replace retiring Senator Dianne Feinstein, early indications show Schiff in a strong position to win the Democratic primary and essentially claim the deep-blue seat, thanks in large part to his high-profile clashes with former President Donald Trump.

As a senior member of the House Intelligence Committee and later its chair, Schiff emerged as one of Trump’s most vocal critics in Congress. He took the lead on the first impeachment of the former president and served as a member of the January 6th committee investigating the Capitol attack. Schiff’s relentless questioning of Trump administration officials and promotion of the Russia investigation endeared him to the Democratic base.

How Trump Catalyzed Schiff’s Senate Bid

When Trump attacked Adam Schiff personally, it had the effect of elevating the congressman’s standing with California Democrats. Analysts say Trump’s intervention made Schiff “the tip of the spear in Trump opposition,” a position that has powered his fundraising well above his primary competitors. With over $32 million raised so far, Schiff is poised for victory on Tuesday’s primary.

If Adam Schiff does indeed capture the nomination, he is virtually assured of winning the general election in November given California’s strong Democratic tilt. It remains to be seen what role, if any, Trump might continue to play but Schiff’s history of taking on the former president has already put him on the likely path to the U.S. Senate.