Fetterman Continues Criticism of Democratic Party Actions Following Trump Address
Senator John Fetterman of Pennsylvania, a Democrat, has once again publicly criticized his own party’s behavior, this time following President Donald Trump’s recent address before a joint session of Congress. Fetterman’s remarks come after he previously labeled some Democratic responses to the address as a "sad cavalcade of self owns and unhinged petulance."
In a tweet on Friday, Fetterman continued his critique, using the hashtag "#TheResistance" before listing examples of what he perceived as missteps by his fellow Democrats. These included "Snub a 13 year-old cancer survivor," "Joint Address Protest Paddle Bonanza," and "Bizarre Pick Your Fighter videos." He then added, "Hold our beer: Government Shutdown!" cautioning, "Never, never, never vote for a shutdown—ever."
Fetterman’s dismay stems, in part, from what he views as a lack of grace shown by some Democrats during a specific moment in Trump’s address. During the speech, Trump recognized 13-year-old DJ Daniel, a young man who aspires to be a police officer and was diagnosed with brain cancer in 2018. Trump, in a gesture of support, announced, "I am asking our new Secret Service Director, Sean Curran, to officially make you an agent of the United States Secret Service."
Fetterman described this moment as "touching" in an earlier interview with Fox News Digital. He expressed concern over the perceived reluctance of some Democrats to applaud or acknowledge the gesture towards the young cancer survivor.
This sentiment was echoed by some Republicans, who accused Democrats of being "childish" for remaining silent during the recognition of Daniel. The hashtag #COULDNTCLAPFORA13YEAROLDBOY began trending on social media as critics highlighted the perceived lack of support.
In addition to the handling of the moment with DJ Daniel, Fetterman’s criticism extended to other actions taken by Democratic lawmakers during the President’s address. Some members held up signs with messages such as "FALSE," "SAVE MEDICAID," "PROTECT VETERANS," and "MUSK STEALS," seemingly as a form of silent protest.
However, one of the most widely criticized incidents was the release of a viral video featuring social media influencer Sulhee Jessica Woo and several Democratic congresswomen. The video depicted Woo and the congresswomen posing in fighting stances, mimicking characters from a video game. Text on the screen read, "CHOOSE YOUR FIGHTER."
The video was met with widespread mockery, including from the White House. The White House’s "Rapid Response 47" X account quipped, "Democrats Not Be Cringe Challenge. Level: Impossible." The video further fueled criticism of the Democratic party, with many labeling it as tone-deaf and out of touch. The reactions on social media varied between those who found the video embarrassing and those who found it funny. The point is, the video created negative headlines for the democrats.
The final element of Fetterman’s criticism centered on the potential for a government shutdown. His post included a screenshot of a Politico headline that read, "Senate Democrats impending choice: Shutdown or surrender." President Trump has been advocating for using a continuing resolution to avert an approaching government shutdown.
Trump has stated, "I am working with the GREAT House Republicans on a Continuing Resolution to fund the Government until September to give us some needed time to work on our Agenda," in a post on Truth Social.
Securing enough votes to pass a continuing resolution through the Senate will require some Democratic support. Fetterman has expressed strong opposition to any such shutdown, stating, "I’m never going to be a part of any vote that shuts the government down," according to Politico.
He reportedly added, "The fact that anyone on our side would even rattle those sabers, that’s bulls—." Fetterman concluded by saying, "To think I’m going to burn the village down to save it, that’s bonkers."
Fetterman’s recent comments and actions signal a continued willingness to publicly challenge his own party’s strategy and behavior. His focus on issues such as avoiding government shutdowns and displaying decorum, even in the face of political opposition, aligns with his image as a moderate voice within the Democratic party. Whether his criticisms will lead to any changes in the party’s approach remains to be seen.
Fox News Digital reached out to Fetterman’s office to request a comment on Friday but did not receive a response by the time of publication. The incident has put a spotlight on the growing intra-party debates about the best path forward for the Democrats, particularly in the face of a resurgent Republican party.
