So if both Manchin and Sinema go independent, does that mean schumer looses the majority?
In 2023,and after Warnock wins runoff.... it was expected....
49 (D) 49 (R) 2 (I) Bernie and King who caucus with (D) <This gives majority to D's 51-49>
After Sinema's move yesterday:
48 (D) 49 (R) 3 (I) Bernie and King caucus with (D). Sinema has pledged to caucus with neither. <If Sinema abstains on Majority Leader vote , there will be still a D majority 50-49>
Now say Manchin follows suit, and abstains on Majority Leader Vote. We now have a 49-49 Senate. VPOTUS casts deciding vote.
Basically Chucky prevails in any scenario.