Fetterman's Democratic Support Collapses in Pennsylvania as 2028 Chatter Grows
Sen. John Fetterman's approval among Pennsylvania Democrats has plummeted, while Republicans view him favorably, fueling speculation about his political future.
Two years after being one of the Democratic Party's most sought-after campaign surrogates in Pennsylvania, Sen. John Fetterman has become politically isolated, with his approval ratings among Republicans now far surpassing those within his own party.
Recent polling shows the depth of the shift. A New York Times survey from August found only about 2 in 10 registered Democrats in the state view him favorably, a stark reversal from the 74% positive rating he held in 2024. In contrast, 73% of Republican voters now view him positively, up from 25% a few years ago. A separate Quinnipiac poll from July similarly indicated that most Republicans approve of his job performance while most Democrats do not.
Fetterman's divergence from Democratic orthodoxy has been a recurring theme. He has supported several of President Donald Trump's nominations, voted with Republicans to end a government shutdown, and maintained staunch support for Israel's military campaign in Gaza. His criticism of left-wing candidates and his public antagonism toward fellow Democrats have further widened the rift.
Despite the friction, Fetterman has repeatedly stated he will not switch parties, citing his support for labor unions and LGBT rights. However, he has noted that a Democratic Party shift to an anti-Israel stance would be a "red line" that could force him out. He has also formed an unusual alliance with Pennsylvania's Republican senator, David McCormick, including a joint fundraising committee.
Local Democratic officials have expressed reluctance to have Fetterman campaign on their behalf. Lori McFarland, the Democratic Party chair in Lehigh County, said voters feel betrayed and that no one has requested his presence. State Rep. Peter Schweyer of Allentown noted that Fetterman has effectively disappeared from public view, a sentiment echoed by officials who say they haven't seen him in years.
Fetterman's dedication to his duties has also been questioned, with reports of missed votes and hearings, as well as a contentious meeting with a teachers union. His behavior has led some Democrats to speculate about a primary challenge in 2028. Reps. Chris Deluzio and Brendan Boyle, along with former Rep. Conor Lamb, have emerged as potential candidates and outspoken critics.
Deluzio stated that Democrats do not want Fetterman campaigning for them, adding that Pennsylvanians expect him to act as a Democrat for the remainder of his term. Senate Majority Leader John Thune has acknowledged conversations with Fetterman about his challenges within the Democratic caucus, suggesting that Republicans would welcome him if he chose to switch.
A party switch by Fetterman could have significant implications for the Senate's balance of power. With Democrats currently holding 47 seats, a switch following the next election could reset the chamber to a 50-50 split, giving Republicans the majority and Vice President JD Vance the tie-breaking vote.