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Pennsylvania Democrat Senator John Fetterman has firmly dismissed speculation about switching to the Republican Party. Speaking to Semafor on Monday, he addressed the rumors, calling them baseless. “That’s not going to happen,” Fetterman stated. “If anyone thinks this is some kind of ‘Manchin or Sinema’ maneuver, they’re mistaken. That’s amateur hour.”
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Fetterman referred to former Democratic Senators Kyrsten Sinema and Joe Manchin, who left the party to become Independents while maintaining Democratic ties. He emphasized that even entertaining the idea of switching parties would be “a rocket sled to Palookaville” and remarked that he “would make a pretty bad Republican.”
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However, Fetterman’s bipartisan engagements have drawn attention. His recent visit to Mar-a-Lago to meet with President Donald Trump, collaboration with Republicans on the Laken Riley Act, and vocal support for Israel have fueled curiosity about his political stance.
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In his efforts to influence his party, Fetterman has encouraged Democrats to adopt a measured approach to Trump’s policies and maintain openness in confirming presidential nominees. Despite his moderate tone, Fetterman has made it clear that his commitment to the Democratic Party remains unwavering, as confirmed by Semafor.
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Fetterman’s meeting with Trump at Mar-a-Lago before the inauguration was a significant event. Trump, in an interview with the Washington Examiner, described the meeting as “fascinating,” praising Fetterman as a “common-sense person.” Discussions reportedly included safeguarding the U.S. steel industry, a critical issue for Pennsylvania, and Trump’s controversial proposal for the U.S. to acquire Greenland. Trump remarked about Fetterman. stating that he’s not liberal or conservative; he’s practical.
Fetterman defended his decision to meet Trump, emphasizing the importance of engaging with leaders for Pennsylvania’s benefit. “I’m a senator for everyone in Pennsylvania, not just Democrats,” he told CBS News.
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When questioned about Trump’s Greenland proposal, Fetterman did not dismiss it outright, saying, “Whatever comes up will be part of the conversation.” He later joked with reporters, quipping, “I’m angling to be named the pope of Greenland.”
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In December, Fetterman criticized Democratic leadership for recent setbacks, notably targeting former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi. Speaking to Politico, he blamed Pelosi for power plays that, in his view, undermined party unity.