John Fetterman Is Becoming a Democrat Without a Party

Sen. John Fetterman used to be one of Pennsylvania Democrats’ biggest political weapons. Now, his own party increasingly wants little to do with him.

Two years ago, Fetterman was a sought-after surrogate for Democrats, traveling across Pennsylvania to campaign for candidates up and down the ballot. Today, he is largely sitting on the sidelines.

According to The Associated Press, Pennsylvania Democrats are increasingly distancing themselves from the senator as he breaks with his party on some of its biggest issues, and increasingly finds common ground with Republicans.

The numbers are brutal.

Fetterman’s standing among Pennsylvania Democrats has collapsed. AP reports that just 20% of Democrats now view him favorably, compared with 74% in 2024. At the same time, his relationship with Republicans has improved.

That political transformation has been driven in part by Fetterman’s unwavering support for Israel, his criticism of the Democratic left and his willingness to support some of President Donald Trump’s nominees and priorities.

Fetterman has also repeatedly voted with Republicans, including on efforts to end last year’s government shutdown. And he has made clear that he has no interest in becoming a traditional party-line Democrat.

“I’m not going to be a Republican,” Fetterman told Fox News. But he also said he would work with anyone “playing it straight.”

That independence may play well with some voters. It is not playing well with Pennsylvania Democrats.

The backlash intensified after a Wall Street Journal investigation raised questions about Fetterman’s attendance, constituent meetings and engagement with the day-to-day responsibilities of the Senate. Fetterman and his office have pushed back against criticism of his record. But politically, the damage is becoming harder to ignore.

Democrats are already looking toward 2028, with potential primary challengers beginning to emerge.

Fetterman insists he is not leaving the Democratic Party. But his growing distance from its base could make staying in the party increasingly difficult.