Democratic Sen. John Fetterman of Pennsylvania appeared in a prerecorded video at the Republican National Committee’s midterm convention in Dallas on Wednesday, praising his state’s Republican Sen. Dave McCormick and expressing willingness to work with former President Donald Trump.
In the video, Fetterman introduced McCormick as a speaker at the event, stating, “Yes, I’m a Democrat. Why am I here talking to you today? Because, well, I’m a common-sense Democrat”. He added, “I’m always going to stand with America. I’m always going to reject the extremes and socialism and the anti-American way of life.”
Fetterman stood in front of a U.S. Steel mill in Western Pennsylvania’s Mon Valley, emphasizing collaboration on steel industry issues. “That’s exactly the kind of thing that we’ll work together, and we’ll work with President Trump, to fight and defend the steel way of life, right here in the Steel Valley,” he said.
McCormick responded on stage, thanking Fetterman for his “friendship” and “courage.” The convention audience reacted with muted applause for Fetterman’s remarks, though they cheered when he concluded and introduced McCormick.
Reaction and Political Context
Fetterman’s appearance comes amid reports of his increasing bipartisan engagement, including a joint fundraising committee with McCormick, which has drawn criticism from some Democrats. A former Fetterman aide, speaking anonymously to NBC News, described the move as “pathetic” and suggested McCormick was “working him like a dog.”
Fetterman has previously distanced himself from progressive elements of his party, opposing what he describes as “socialist” influences in Democratic primaries. His alignment with Trump’s policies, including on U.S. Steel’s acquisition by Nippon Steel, has also drawn attention. While Fetterman initially opposed the deal, Trump ultimately approved it, citing potential “tens of billions in new investments.”
The senator’s video appearance follows his meeting with Trump at Mar-a-Lago after the 2024 election, marking him as the first Senate Democrat to do so. His actions have fueled speculation about his political future, though he has denied plans to leave the Democratic Party.
Policy and Electoral Implications
Fetterman’s remarks at the convention underscore his focus on economic issues, particularly in Pennsylvania’s steel industry, a key regional employer. His collaboration with McCormick and Trump contrasts with his 2022 campaign rhetoric, where he positioned himself as a progressive Democrat in a closely contested race.
The joint fundraising effort with McCormick has drawn criticism from some Democratic quarters, with former aides questioning its strategic value. Meanwhile, Fetterman’s willingness to engage with Trump-aligned Republicans may reflect his electoral calculus in a state with a competitive political landscape.
The event also highlights the growing fluidity in U.S. political alliances, as lawmakers from opposing parties seek common ground on economic and trade issues.