Fetterman BACKSTABS Own Party Leadership

(LibertyInsiderNews.com) – Pennsylvania Democrats are plotting to oust Sen. John Fetterman in a 2028 primary challenge, furious over his independent streak that includes supporting Trump nominees and breaking ranks on government shutdown votes.

Story Snapshot

Key PA Democrats plan primary challenge against Fetterman for 2028 Senate seat
Fetterman voted as only Democrat for GOP shutdown prevention measure in October 2025
Rep. Brendan Boyle calls Fetterman “Trump’s favorite Democrat” amid growing party tensions
Potential challengers include Reps. Boyle, Chris Deluzio, and former Rep. Conor Lamb

Fetterman’s Break from Progressive Orthodoxy

Senator John Fetterman has dramatically shifted from his 2022 progressive campaign platform, creating unprecedented friction within Pennsylvania’s Democratic establishment. Elected with Bernie Sanders’ endorsement on promises of cannabis legalization and criminal justice reform, Fetterman now regularly crosses party lines on critical votes. His October 2025 vote as the sole Democrat supporting a GOP-led stopgap funding measure exemplifies his willingness to defy party leadership when he believes it serves Pennsylvania’s interests.

The senator’s vocal support for Israel, including two visits and defense of Netanyahu amid Gaza operations, further alienates progressive activists. Fetterman positions himself as seeking “truth over party lines,” rejecting what he views as inflammatory anti-Republican rhetoric that damages bipartisan cooperation. This independent approach mirrors Joe Manchin’s moderation, though Fetterman explicitly promised voters in 2022 he wouldn’t follow Manchin’s path.

Democratic Establishment Mobilizes Against Fetterman

Representative Brendan Boyle leads the charge against Fetterman, publicly labeling him “Trump’s favorite Democrat” and expressing openness to a 2028 primary challenge. The tension erupted in July 2025 when Fetterman complained about missing family beach time during a legislative vote-a-rama, prompting Boyle to declare, “If you don’t want to be here, leave.” Labor leaders back Boyle’s potential candidacy, viewing Fetterman’s independence as damaging to party unity.

Other potential challengers include Rep. Chris Deluzio, who builds his national profile while avoiding direct attacks on Fetterman, and former Rep. Conor Lamb, who lost the 2022 primary to Fetterman but retains progressive support from figures like AOC. Pennsylvania Democratic strategist J.J. Balaban notes Fetterman’s “downward trajectory” creates “possibility of an opening in 2028.” Party operatives express concern that Fetterman appears disengaged, frequently missing Monday votes and skipping caucus lunches.

Fetterman Defends Record with Data

Fetterman dismisses the primary plotting as “clickbait,” countering critics with voting statistics that show his 6% Trump alignment rate compared to Boyle’s 14%. He maintains strong overall approval among Pennsylvania voters despite majority disapproval from state Democrats, according to Quinnipiac polling. The senator reaffirms his commitment to remaining a Democrat while emphasizing his independent voice represents Pennsylvania’s swing-state character better than rigid party orthodoxy.

Recent developments show Fetterman’s selective party unity, as demonstrated by his January 8, 2026 vote with Democrats on a Venezuela war powers resolution against Trump. He keeps “all 2028 doors open” amid speculation about retirement due to apparent aversion to Washington politics. This internal Democratic conflict represents a broader test of party tolerance for moderates in Trump-won battleground states, potentially determining whether pragmatic voices survive progressive purity demands.