Pennsylvania Senator John Fetterman mistakenly referred to himself as a "lifelong Republican" during an event at the Texas Tribune Festival on Saturday. The comment was made in light of ongoing speculation regarding his political affiliation, given his moderate leanings. Fetterman, 57, quickly corrected himself after being reminded by moderator Major Garrett that he is a Democrat, acknowledging the potential for the slip to gain attention.
Fetterman has faced persistent questions about his loyalty to the Democratic Party, particularly after he stated in a May op-ed in the Washington Post that he would be a "terrible Republican who still votes overwhelmingly with Democrats." He has also suggested that he might consider switching parties if the Democratic Party became the "anti-Israel party."
Despite his alignment with several Democratic policies, such as abortion rights, LGBTQ rights, healthcare expansion, and raising the minimum wage, Fetterman has had notable disagreements with more progressive members of his party, particularly regarding Israel. He has made appearances with Republican figures, which has led to confusion among his constituents.
Earlier this month, Fetterman participated via video at a Republican midterm convention, where he expressed a willingness to "work with President Trump." Following criticism of his appearance, he reiterated to reporters that he does not intend to become a Republican, stating, "Why can’t you guys just wait till the midterms? And if I turn Republican, then I’ll be a liar. … Chill."
Fetterman has also diverged from party lines on significant issues, including votes against war powers resolutions concerning Iran and efforts to cut U.S. aid to Israel. At the Texas festival, he dismissed the notion of a Republican future for himself, asserting that he "has no path as a Republican" and that "that’s a fact." He acknowledged the potential for a significant role in the Senate after the midterms, discussing the possibility of Democrats regaining control and him serving as the 51st vote. "Let’s revisit this after the midterms, and let’s see what happens, you know, if I happen to be 51. I don’t know," Fetterman said.