Democrats put everything behind getting him elected and now they regret it.
Senator John Fetterman is undergoing a notable shift in his political stance, asserting that he does not align with progressive ideals. This departure contrasts with his prior self-identification as a progressive, especially during campaign activities and on social media, according to The New York Post.
In an interview with NBC News on Friday, Senator Fetterman clarified his position, stating, “I just think I’m a Democrat that is very committed to choice and other things, but with Israel, I’m going to be on the right side of that.” This declaration comes in response to criticism from within his party’s left wing regarding his support for Israel in its conflict with Hamas and his stance on immigration reform. Notably, Fetterman had previously associated himself with progressive figures such as Senator Bernie Sanders.
The senator faced backlash for supporting Israel’s right to counter Hamas after an attack on October 7th, resulting in public heckling and an open letter from 16 former campaign staffers condemning his stance as a “gutting betrayal.” Similarly, his nuanced position on immigration, advocating for a reasonable conversation about policies to address the flow of migrants at the southern border, has drawn criticism.
Despite these controversies, Fetterman’s chief of staff, Adam Jentleson, maintains that the senator’s current policy positions align with his longstanding beliefs. Jentleson asserts that Fetterman has consistently held these views, countering claims that he has undergone a fundamental change.
While some progressives on social media accuse Fetterman of shifting his positions opportunistically, others argue that he has remained steadfast in his beliefs, with the chief of staff emphasizing the senator’s consistency throughout his political career.