A push is building to make Bernie Sanders the next Senate Democratic leader, not as a presidential bid but as a two-year leadership role, which would be good news for progressives hoping for a sharper, more combative Democratic strategy.

• Sanders has ruled out another presidential run and says he's too old for that, but is seen as fit enough to lead Senate Democrats.
• Chris Van Hollen of Maryland is floated as another top contender, described as principled and hard to pressure off his positions.
• Chris Murphy was also mentioned as a possible leader, but a recent stroke complicates his path, and he may instead eye a presidential run if he recovers.
• The idea of Sanders as leader is being pushed to counter establishment Democrats, who are reportedly dismissive of the idea.

Outlook: Expect continued public pressure campaigns for Sanders or Van Hollen as the Senate Democratic leadership question plays out.