Senator John Fetterman addressed accusations from former aides who claimed he has shown indifference toward his responsibilities and has frequently missed constituent meetings. In a statement to CNN, Fetterman referred to the former staffers as 'disgruntled staffers' and accused them of spreading 'smears' to damage his reputation. This response follows a report by The Wall Street Journal that included text messages and comments from former staffers suggesting that Fetterman has prioritized engagement with conservative media over his duties as a senator.
Former staffers have also created an anonymous account on X, threatening to release more negative information about Fetterman, who is reportedly facing declining approval ratings within his party amidst ongoing debates over issues such as Israel, Iran, and immigration, as he considers a potential reelection campaign in 2028. Fetterman had previously indicated he would leave the Democratic Party if it adopted an anti-Israel stance.
In his statement, Fetterman criticized the Wall Street Journal article as the 'third hit piece' from former staffers, asserting that it contained 'lies, half-truths, innuendos, smears and anonymous' claims. He responded to specific leaked text messages, including one where he questioned the necessity of meeting with officials from the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia regarding Medicaid cuts. Fetterman acknowledged that his comment was a 'dumb joke' and apologized, while asserting his commitment to advocate for the hospital's needs.
The report also indicated that Fetterman skipped a funeral for three police officers killed near York, Pennsylvania, citing the service's lengthy duration as a reason. He stated that he had sent flowers and expressed condolences publicly. Additionally, the report mentioned that Fetterman missed a meeting with paralyzed veterans to discuss healthcare legislation, which he attributed to feeling unwell at the time. He later clarified that he had been ill but felt better afterward.
Concerns about Fetterman's behavior have been raised previously, including a letter from his former chief of staff, Adam Jentleson, which highlighted issues related to Fetterman's behavior and mental health. Fetterman was hospitalized for depression in 2023 and has been open about his treatment. Jentleson noted on X that the recent report involved a new group of staff who were reportedly alarmed by Fetterman's conduct.