Sen. John Fetterman Distances Himself From ‘Progressive’ Label To Embrace Moderate Stances

Sen. John Fetterman (D-Pennsylvania) has opened up about his shifting political identity, moving away from the “progressive” label he once embraced. 

Fetterman has been criticized by some within his party for his stances on critical issues, particularly his support for Israel and concerns over border security.

Fetterman, elected to the Senate in 2022, acknowledged that the “progressive” label no longer fits him. 

“I’m not a progressive; I just identified myself as a regular Democrat,” he told CNN. “Now, eight years ago, I was a progressive, but the situation’s changed, and I’ve been obvious that I didn’t leave that label. That label left [left] me. I think it’s much more important to be focusing on [national issues] instead of those kinds of purity tests and those kinds of issues.”

Fetterman’s comments come after criticism from progressive lawmakers, such as Rep. Pramila Jayapal (D-Washington), who criticized the administration’s new border policy. Fetterman, however, defended the administration’s approach and stated that border security is an essential issue in his state and that he believes “we should have a secure border.”

Fetterman’s stance on Israel has also drawn scrutiny from some within his party. He has expressed strong support for Israel, which has put him at odds with certain progressive factions. Fetterman acknowledged that this position has made him a target, saying that progressives, along with the right, are hoping he “dies” over his stance on Israel and border security.

In a previous interview with Fox News’ Chad Pergram, Fetterman elaborated on his views on immigration.

“When you started just following the numbers that are coming again and then when you’ve reached 200,000 or 250,000 folks that are encountered at the border — I mean that’s astonishing,” he said. “And then just putting that in the context of Pennsylvania. I was like, ‘Oh, my goodness. That’s nearly the size of Pittsburgh.’ And that’s our second-largest city. You can be very pro-immigration but also demand and require that we have a secure border there as well. I don’t know why that’s really controversial for a Democrat or any American to be pro-immigration.”