UPDATE: Senator John Fetterman, D-Pa., is calling for urgent bipartisan cooperation as the threat of a government shutdown looms. In an interview on “My View” with Lara Trump on Saturday, Fetterman emphasized the need for dialogue across party lines to resolve critical issues facing the nation.
Fetterman has recently diverged from his party on several key matters, including the confirmation of U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi, support for the Laken Riley Act aimed at border security, and U.S. military actions against Iranian nuclear sites. His stance on the impending government shutdown has been particularly noteworthy. “Whether it’s Republican or Democrat, whatever is driving the shutdown, that’s always wrong,” Fetterman stated. “You may have a noble goal, but that is the wrong tactic.”
The senator acknowledged the urgency of the situation, expressing disappointment over the lack of consensus within his party. “I apologize for Democrats not getting their ‘s— together’ and opening the government,” he said, highlighting the need to represent all constituents in Pennsylvania, which comprises over 13 million residents.
Fetterman’s collaborative efforts include partnering with Republican Senator Katie Britt on legislation following the tragic murder of nursing student Laken Riley. “She reached out saying, hey, would you be willing to co-sponsor?” Fetterman recalled. He has also introduced the Stop the Scroll Act with Britt to require social media platforms to incorporate mental health warning labels, signaling a proactive approach to pressing social issues.
In discussing U.S. strikes on Iran, Fetterman affirmed his support for military action, arguing that allowing Iran to develop nuclear weapons would have catastrophic consequences for the Middle East. He commended the strikes for creating conditions conducive to a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, suggesting that his party should celebrate these geopolitical successes. “How can we allow Iran to acquire a nuclear weapon?” he posed during the interview.
Fetterman also recounted a productive dinner with former President Donald Trump, emphasizing the importance of finding common ground. “It’s not about bending the knee,” he said, stressing that divisive rhetoric only exacerbates political tensions. He condemned the labeling of political opponents as “Nazis” or “fascists,” arguing it alienates voters and deepens divisions.
Warning against escalating harsh rhetoric, particularly in light of recent violence involving right-wing figure Charlie Kirk, Fetterman urged both parties to recognize their interdependence. “I refuse to believe the very worst things about the other side, because I just know that’s not true,” he asserted. “We are forgetting that we [Republicans and Democrats] need each other.”
As the deadline for government funding approaches, Fetterman’s call for bipartisan action resonates strongly with many constituents who are eager for resolution. His message is clear: collaboration is essential to navigate the political landscape and address the urgent challenges facing the nation.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.
