Fetterman addresses GOP convention, deepening rift with Democrats

Democratic Sen. John Fetterman addressed the Republican midterm convention by recorded video on Wednesday, an unusual move that has intensified concerns within his own party that he may switch allegiance.

Fetterman spoke for a little over a minute, using the appearance to introduce his fellow Pennsylvania senator, Republican Dave McCormick, whom he described as "a great American."

Standing in front of a steel mill, Fetterman said he would work with President Trump to defend the steel industry. He did not criticise anyone by name, but his remarks suggested that Democrats are extremists — a theme Republicans are pushing at their two-day rally in Dallas, aimed at energising the conservative base ahead of midterm elections.

"I'm always going to stand with America," Fetterman said. "I'm always going to reject the extremes and socialism and that anti-American way of life."

McCormick praised Fetterman after the video ended, thanking him for his friendship and courage. The clip was subsequently shared on a White House social media account with the caption "Based John Fetterman."

The appearance is likely to heighten Democratic anxiety over Fetterman's loyalties. Democrats need to gain four Republican-held Senate seats in November to win the majority. Should Fetterman join the Republican Party, they would need to pick up an additional seat to control the chamber.

Fetterman has become increasingly isolated within his party. He has maintained strong support for Israel's war in Gaza and has criticised left-wing candidates affiliated with the Democratic Socialists of America. He has also broken with his party on several Senate votes, including backing Republicans to end last year's shutdown, supporting a number of President Donald Trump's nominees and opposing efforts to end the war in Iran.

He has repeatedly said he would not change parties, citing his support for labour unions, LGBTQ rights and other causes favoured by the left. Even if he remains a Democrat, he would wield significant influence in a narrow 51-49 majority, where his party would need unanimous support to exercise power.