From Newsweek · · 1m 20s
Fetterman pushes back on party-switch talk
After a surprise RNC video, John Fetterman rejected Republican-switch rumors while facing fresh staff criticism.
In brief
After a surprise RNC video, John Fetterman rejected Republican-switch rumors while facing fresh staff criticism. Fetterman says he remains a Democrat, but his RNC appearance, staff allegations, and shifting poll numbers are intensifying scrutiny. Originally reported by Newsweek.
Questions follow the RNC
Reporters pressed John Fetterman on Capitol Hill after his surprise video appearance at the Republican National Convention drew criticism from some Democrats.
He denied switching parties
Fetterman grew frustrated when asked whether he planned to become a Republican, saying he has always been a Democrat and is not on the ballot this year.
“I'm not going to be a Republican”
Former aides raise concerns
A former staffer told Newsweek that Fetterman had to be pushed to do more Senate work, echoing a Wall Street Journal report about his day-to-day engagement.
“little interest”
Steel message stirred confusion
In the RNC video, Fetterman stood by a western Pennsylvania steel mill and said he would work with Dave McCormick and Donald Trump to defend steel jobs.
“to fight and defend the steel way of life”
His coalition has flipped
Polling cited by Newsweek found Republicans now view Fetterman more favorably than Democrats, a reversal from 2024.
Speculation keeps building
Fetterman's term runs until 2028, but questions about his party ties and Senate work have kept pressure on him well before his next election.
“My name is not on the ballot. Chill”
The short version
Fetterman says he remains a Democrat, but his RNC appearance, staff allegations, and shifting poll numbers are intensifying scrutiny.
