Former President Donald Trump expressed openness to Democratic Senator John Fetterman of Pennsylvania joining the Republican Party. Trump praised Fetterman as a “great guy” and stated that he would welcome the switch.
Upon stepping off Air Force One at Joint Base Andrews, Trump responded to reporters asking if he had spoken with Fetterman about changing parties. Trump remarked, “I’d love to see it. I think he’s great. It’s going to be hard for him to get the nomination as a Democrat, but I’d love to have him as a Republican.”
Trump also highlighted Fetterman’s attributes, mentioning his “magnificent parents” and describing him as a “very solid person.” Trump complimented Fetterman’s intelligence and noted his “great common sense.” According to Trump, Fetterman could benefit politically from a switch to the Republican Party, citing polls that suggest Fetterman performs better as a Republican.
Fetterman’s actions this session of Congress, where he has broken from the Democrats on key issues, contribute to speculation about a potential party switch. Although Fetterman has voted with Democrats almost 90% of the time since joining the Senate in 2023, his alignment with them has decreased to just under 81% recently, according to Fox News Digital.
Fetterman’s divergences have sparked ongoing speculation about his political future. His use of Republican fundraising platforms and friendships with Republican colleagues, such as Sen. Katie Britt of Alabama, add to this narrative. Recently, Fetterman introduced Sen. Dave McCormick at the Republican Midterm Convention.
During the Texas Tribune’s TribFest, Fetterman mistakenly referred to himself as a lifelong Republican. Although he corrected his error, Fetterman acknowledged the gaffe, “I guarantee you that will break through. That will get clipped.” Fox News Digital has contacted Fetterman’s office for further comments.