Watan-Democratic Senator John Fetterman of Pennsylvania is facing mounting pressure amid reports of erratic behavior, mental health concerns raised by current and former staff, and a sharp decline in popularity among progressives—especially following his outspoken support for Israel during its war on Gaza.
A New York Magazine report revealed deep concern among Fetterman’s staff about his psychological state, followed by an Associated Press article detailing a tense meeting with a teachers’ union that ended with Fetterman shouting, “Why does everyone hate me? What did I do?” One staffer reportedly left the meeting in tears.
In an email obtained by the magazine, Fetterman’s former chief of staff, Adam Jentleson, expressed serious concern about the senator’s mental health. He noted that Fetterman was skipping his medications, exhibiting signs of paranoia, lying, isolating himself, purchasing a gun, and driving recklessly—so much so that staff members refused to accompany him.
The report stated that several current and former aides described a “toxic” workplace environment and portrayed Fetterman as highly unstable, with his mental condition far worse than publicly acknowledged.
Jesus. John Fetterman should not be a U.S. Senator. pic.twitter.com/gXe9sZsInQ
— Aaron Regunberg (@AaronRegunberg) May 2, 2025
The pressure isn’t only internal. Political circles and media figures have also begun calling for his resignation. Progressive journalist Jeet Heer wrote, “We can debate his politics, but I don’t understand how anyone can ignore his clear suffering. The best thing for him and his family would be to step down.”
Fetterman dismissed the reports, calling them “based on anonymous sources,” but received only tepid support from his Democratic colleagues. Internal discussions have reportedly started regarding a possible resignation and replacement options.
Since defeating Mehmet Oz in 2022, Fetterman has faced significant criticism, particularly after being hospitalized for depression in 2023. However, his public support dropped dramatically after he offered unwavering backing for Israel’s war in Gaza—becoming the only Democrat to visit Donald Trump at Mar-a-Lago after his presidential victory—further alienating him from the progressive base.
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