Sen. John Fetterman says ‘disgruntled staffers’ spread ‘smears’ in response to accusations of apathy toward constituent work
Sen. John Fetterman has rejected accusations from former aides that he is disengaged from his Senate duties, especially constituent services, describing the claims as an attempt by “disgruntled staffers” to harm his reputation.
The Pennsylvania Democrat responded publicly over the weekend after The Wall Street Journal reported that former employees were concerned about his approach to the role, including claims that he frequently missed constituent meetings and was increasingly focused on conservative media.
Fetterman rejected former aides’ allegations
In a statement to CNN, Fetterman called The Wall Street Journal article “the third hit piece from disgruntled staffers” targeting him. He said, “Per usual — lies, half-truths, innuendos, smears and anonymous… No matter how many smears or stories, I’m proud to continue to deliver for Pennsylvania.”
The senator specifically addressed three leaked text exchanges cited by The Journal, stating that the messages lacked sufficient context to fully explain the situations.
CHOP meeting sparked criticism
One of the messages involved meetings with officials at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) regarding potential Medicaid reductions.
In a text from September last year, Fetterman asked why he needed to “keep having to meet” with hospital representatives. When an aide explained that they were concerned about Medicaid cuts, he responded, “Well, I’m not.”
Fetterman admitted the remark was inappropriate, telling CNN it was a “dumb joke, and for that, I sincerely apologize.” He also rejected the suggestion that he had ignored CHOP, stating that he had met with hospital officials both virtually and in person.
The police funeral absence came under scrutiny
The Journal also reported that Fetterman chose not to attend the funeral for three police officers killed near York, Pennsylvania, last September. According to a text cited by the newspaper, he objected to the length of the service, writing, “This may be a nonstarter.”
He told CNN he still showed support for the victims’ families. He said flowers were privately arranged for them on the day of the tragedy and that he publicly expressed his condolences. He added, “In June of this year, I privately attended a Tunnel to Towers fundraiser in York for the families. I met with their chief and the family members directly to express my personal condolences.”
Veterans’ meeting added to staff tensions
The Journal further reported that Fetterman missed a scheduled meeting with three paralyzed Pennsylvania veterans seeking to discuss healthcare legislation. His staff informed the veterans he was unwell. Fetterman later appeared at his office and reportedly gave a Fox News interview about an hour later.
Fetterman said his absence was not meant as a dismissal of the veterans, stating, “It was my intention to meet with the group. Prior to the meeting I was at home throwing up, so I asked my staff to continue with the meeting which they did. Hours later, I felt well enough to continue the day as scheduled.”