Pennsylvania Senator John Fetterman is confronting a series of obstacles as he considers a re-election campaign, with recent polls indicating a waning of support from his Democratic base. The poll, targeting likely Democratic voters in Pittsburgh, shows that only 46% view Fetterman favorably. This data presents a stark contrast to Governor Josh Shapiro's robust 82% favorability within the same demographic.
The polling comes at a precarious time for Fetterman, conducted prior to a New York Magazine report that raised questions about the senator's well-being post-stroke. The report suggested concerns among Fetterman’s staff about his capability to continue in public office. However, his supporters and allies have been quick to dismiss these anxieties as unfounded, attributing the negative press to political motivations, with Trending Politics reporting Fetterman's pro-Israel stance as a potential catalyst for what they label a smear campaign.
In defense of Fetterman, Representative Ritchie Torres posted on social media that the criticism leveled at the senator stems from his foreign policy views rather than legitimate concern for his health. Torres condemned the tactic of weaponizing mental health issues for political gain as both counterproductive and disingenuous. Similarly, Pennsylvania Senator Dave McCormick, a Republican, has called for a cessation of the personal attacks against Fetterman, underscoring the bipartisan commitment to serving their constituents despite policy differences.
The internal poll's findings have reportedly set off alarm bells within the Democratic Party, with a local strategist referring to the situation as a critical moment of concern. The implications have gone as far as prompting discussions about a potential primary challenge to Fetterman in the 2028 election cycle, a move not yet formally pursued but nonetheless indicative of the party's unease. This development follows Fetterman's previous primary victory over Conor Lamb, which was marked by ideological divides within the party.
Representatives Summer Lee and Mary Gay Scanlon, both Pennsylvania Democrats, have noted a lack of recent communication with Fetterman, further highlighting the internal party discord. As the 2028 Senate race looms, the competitiveness of Pennsylvania's political landscape is underscored by the recent upset where Republican McCormick narrowly defeated incumbent Democrat Bob Casey.
The growing scrutiny surrounding Fetterman is exemplified by media inquiries into his health and medication regimen, with social media posts echoing the concerns about his condition, staff discontent, and the impact of his foreign policy stance, particularly regarding Israel.