Democrats have recently engaged in discussions regarding support for Senator John Fetterman (D-PA) following a concerning report about the emotional struggles faced by Pennsylvania senators in Congress.
Two Democratic senators indicated to Hill that they had been consulting with their colleagues to determine the best way to assist Fetterman, who is reportedly finding it challenging to cope with his congressional responsibilities.
“Every time I see him, I’m worried about him,” shared one senator on the condition of anonymity.
The senator relayed concerns expressed by Fetterman’s former chief of staff, noting that he is “on a bad trajectory,” and warned a doctor at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center that Fetterman “will not be with us for much longer” if his situation doesn’t improve.
“We’re all aware and in communication with each other about how to intervene. Honestly, no one has said they aren’t worried,” the senator remarked about the ongoing conversation regarding support for Fetterman.
“There’s a real concern for his safety,” he added.
A second senator, also preferring anonymity, stated he was “involved in the debate” over how to aid Fetterman, reflecting, “They asked, ‘What can we do to support him as friends?'”
“That’s something I’m worried about. It shows we need to step up as friends,” he concluded.
The senator noted that the report from New York Magazine has caught their attention.
“We’re just trying to be good friends,” he indicated.
Another Democratic senator mentioned seeing Fetterman becoming emotional at work and expressed concern regarding his “happiness.” “I genuinely worry about his happiness like every other senator does,” he shared.
Fetterman’s office did not respond to inquiries for comment.
A Democratic aide relayed that Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) has reached out to Fetterman, fostering a friendship and trying to help bridge the gaps that have formed between Fetterman and many of his Democratic peers.
Adam Gentleson, a former chief aide to Fetterman and a veteran on Capitol Hill, had previously raised alarms in a lengthy email to Fetterman’s doctors about “warning signs” he had observed since the senator’s return from clinical treatment.
He highlighted concerning behaviors, including erratic driving and impulsive purchases of firearms. Gentleson mentioned that staff were hesitant to ride with Fetterman due to his unstable driving.
Additionally, he pointed out signs of conspiratorial thinking and questioned whether Fetterman was adhering to his prescribed medication for depression.
Responding to the report, Fetterman characterized it as a “one-source hit piece” and affirmed his commitment to serving in the Senate until his term ends in 2028.
Senate Democrat Whip Dick Durbin (Illinois) noted that Fetterman often withdraws from casual interactions with fellow Democrats.
Voting sessions and Caucus lunches are typically opportunities for senators to connect, unwind, and nurture professional relationships. However, Durbin perceived Fetterman as having a limited presence: “He doesn’t spend much time on the floor for obvious reasons. He seems to have chosen an appearance that raises eyebrows regarding Senate standards.” Fetterman often wears shorts and hoodies and misses many floor activities, often sitting in the Ohio Clock Corridor instead.
According to research, he has missed a higher number of votes compared to other senators, tallying 174 missed votes out of 920, which is nearly 19%.
The New York Magazine article noted tensions between Fetterman and colleagues, including verbal disputes with Senators Patty Murray (D-Wash.) and Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.). However, those familiar with the exchange described it more as a heated discussion than a confrontation.
Shaheen addressed Fetterman about his opposition to a bill concerning sanctions on the International Criminal Court, expressing confusion over Fetterman’s frustration regarding his committee assignment, which is decided by Senate leaders, not individual senators.
Fetterman has also missed several Senate Commerce Committee meetings and had a rare appearance at a hearing on artificial intelligence regulations.
A concerned aide shared that Fetterman struggles to grasp material, remarking, “I really feel for him. There’s always that hope he’s okay.”
Former Pennsylvania Representative Ron Klink expressed frustration over increased staff turnover in Fetterman’s office, noting challenges in communication while seeking assistance on pressing local issues.
“I’ve reached out, but I often don’t get callbacks from his office. There seems to be a communication breakdown,” Klink complained.
Klink represented Pennsylvania’s fourth district from 1993 to 2001.
Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer (NY) defended Fetterman last week amid discussions of his behavior and mental health, asserting, “He’s doing a good job, and he’s a solid representative.”
