A recent internal poll indicates that Pennsylvania Senator John Fetterman’s approval rating has fallen among Democratic voters in his state, particularly in the Pittsburgh area. This development comes amidst concerns about his health and political stances that have diverged from the party’s mainstream.
The poll, conducted from February 6-11, revealed that 49% of likely Democratic voters in Pittsburgh hold an unfavorable view of Fetterman, compared to 46% who view him favorably. This contrasts sharply with the high approval ratings of Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, who enjoys an 82% favorable rating among the same group.
Key Findings:
- Pittsburgh Democrats: 49% unfavorable, 46% favorable.
- Progressive Democrats (Pittsburgh): 74% unfavorable.
- Liberal Democrats (Pittsburgh): 52% favorable.
- Moderate/Conservative Democrats (Pittsburgh): 65% favorable.
- Governor Shapiro’s Approval (Pittsburgh Democrats): 82% favorable, 13% unfavorable.
The poll’s findings, first reported by Politico, have reportedly sparked discussions among Democrats regarding potential replacements and the rules surrounding a senator’s resignation. This follows a New York Magazine article that raised concerns about Fetterman’s physical and mental health, which he has dismissed as a “one-source hit piece.”
READ: Cuomo: Dems Turning On Pennsylvania Sen. Fetterman Highlights Party’s “Losing Battle”
Fetterman’s political stances have also contributed to the decline in his popularity among some Democrats. He has broken with party lines on several key issues, including:
- Voting to confirm Trump administration Attorney General Pam Bondi.
- Opposing a government shutdown during the Senate’s continuing resolution debate.
- Co-sponsoring the Laken Riley Act, which mandates federal detention for illegal immigrants charged with certain crimes.
- Showing strong support for Israel in the ongoing conflict with Hamas, a position that has led to clashes with other prominent Democrats.
Earlier in his career, Fetterman identified as a progressive but stated in 2023 that he no longer considers himself one. His recent meeting with the former president in January, which he defended as an effort to “deliver for Pennsylvania and the nation,” also likely raised eyebrows among some in his party.
READ: Pennsylvania Sen. Fetterman Slams Unfitness Allegations As “One Source Hit Piece”
Interestingly, Fetterman has received public support from Republican Senators Dave McCormick of Pennsylvania and Tom Cotton of Arkansas. McCormick condemned the “disgraceful smears” against Fetterman, emphasizing their shared commitment to Pennsylvania, while Cotton lauded Fetterman as a “decent and genuine guy,” attributing the negative attention to the “radical left” because of his pro-Israel stance.
Elected in 2022, Fetterman is not up for reelection until 2028. Pennsylvania remains a crucial swing state, having narrowly been won by the Republican candidate in the 2024 presidential election. The internal poll results suggest a potential challenge for the Democratic party in maintaining its hold on the Senate seat in the future.
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