Reports of erratic behavior and staff concerns have heightened political pressure on Senator John Fetterman. The Pennsylvania Democrat is facing increased scrutiny following recent accounts, including a meeting with a teachers union that reportedly became contentious.
An article referencing Associated Press reports detailed a meeting last week where Fetterman reportedly raised his voice and banged on a desk while speaking with members of the Pennsylvania State Education Association and the National Education Association. Sources familiar with the encounter said the discussion about pushing back against federal education cuts escalated. Fetterman described the meeting as "spirited" in a statement.
These accounts followed a report in New York magazine citing current and former staffers who expressed concerns about Fetterman's mental and physical health. The report referenced worries about his fitness to serve after a 2022 stroke and 2023 hospitalization for depression. Adam Jentleson, Fetterman's former chief of staff, reportedly outlined concerns in a memo to the senator's doctor, including questions about adherence to medical plans and reckless driving.
Fetterman dismissed the New York magazine report as a "hit piece" in an interview with CNN. He stated the article relied on anonymous disgruntled staffers saying false things and maintained he adheres to doctor protocols following his recovery.
Former staffers, speaking anonymously to The Inquirer, claimed Fetterman spends limited time in meetings and is disengaged from aspects of his job. Data compiled by GovTrack.us indicates Fetterman missed 29 of 236 votes since January, ranking among the lowest attendance records in the Senate.
Relationships with some colleagues have reportedly strained. While Senator Bob Casey stated they had different styles but a strong relationship during their time together, former staff claimed Fetterman isolated himself. Constituent groups in Chester County, Delaware County, and federal employees represented by AFGE District 3 reported difficulty securing direct meetings with Fetterman, often meeting only with staff. State Sen. Anthony Hardy Williams also reported Fetterman was unavailable to meet with a group of residents from Eastwick. However, Neil Makhija, chair of the Montgomery County Board of Commissioners, and Sherri Landis, executive director of the Arc of Pennsylvania, reported positive direct interactions.
Public appearances in Pennsylvania have been infrequent since the fall of 2023, contrasting with Fetterman's past campaign approach. His sole public event in the state this year was at the Farm Show in January. Travel has included trips to Iowa and Israel.
Political criticism has emerged, with Cumberland County Democratic Chair Matt Roan calling for Fetterman's resignation in a PennLive op-ed, citing a lack of public town halls. Indivisible Philadelphia has held protests outside his Philadelphia office. Former primary opponent Conor Lamb criticized Fetterman promoting Senator Dave McCormick's book tour before holding town halls; a joint event was canceled. Fetterman recently held an Instagram Q&A, stating he remains a committed lifelong Democrat.
Despite the scrutiny, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer has voiced support. Schumer told NBC News, "He’s doing a good job, and he’s a good legislator."
