Senator Fetterman says he no longer identifies as ‘progressive’

Sen. John Fetterman, D-Pa., responded to critics of his recent shift towards moderate policies, stating that he no longer identifies with the progressive label.

Fetterman, who was elected in 2022 after serving as lieutenant governor of Pennsylvania from 2019-2023 and as mayor of Braddock, Pennsylvania from 2006-2019, clarified his stance in an interview with CNN. “I’m not a progressive; I just see myself as a regular Democrat,” Fetterman stated. “The political landscape has changed, and I have made it clear that I did not leave that label, the label left me. It’s more important to focus on issues like Donald Trump rather than engaging in purity tests.”

Fetterman has faced criticism from some on the left for his support of Israel and U.S. border security. In a commencement speech at Yeshiva University in May, Fetterman stood in solidarity with Jewish students by removing his red stole representing Harvard University after the Oct. 7 attacks in Israel.

When asked about his colleagues’ remarks on President Joe Biden’s border policy, Fetterman responded to Rep. Pramila Jayapal’s comments on CNN, stating, “She’s entitled to her opinion, but it seems like the harshest criticism of the president is coming from very safe and blue areas. In Pennsylvania, border security is a significant issue, and it’s not unreasonable for Democrats to support securing our borders.”

Regarding Biden’s prospects in Pennsylvania for the 2024 presidential election, Fetterman acknowledged that it could be a close race.