U.S. Senator John Fetterman (D-PA) speaks to reporters, weeks into the continuing U.S. government shutdown, in Washington, D.C., U.S., October 21, 2025. REUTERS/Kylie Cooper
(New York, New York) – Pennsylvania Democrat Senator John Fetterman went on CNN and delivered a sharp criticism of fellow Democrats during an interview, urging his party to rethink its rhetoric and strategy following recent electoral losses.
Speaking on CNN, the Pennsylvania Democrat said Democrats have “lost the argument” nationally and should be honest about why they have lost two of the last three election cycles. Sen. Fetterman specifically warned against labeling former President Donald Trump an “autocrat,” pushing government shutdowns, or rejecting cooperation with Trump on issues such as crime.
Fetterman also described what he said was a stark contrast in how criticism is expressed across the political spectrum. While acknowledging that conservatives often use harsh language, he argued that attacks from the left can be more personal and extreme.
“The Right would say really rough things and names,” Fetterman said, adding that criticism from the left has included comments wishing him harm or mocking his past stroke. “On the Left, it was like they want me to die or that ‘we’re cheering for your next stroke,’” he said.
The comments quickly drew attention online, with supporters praising Fetterman for blunt honesty and critics accusing him of overstating divisions within his own party.
Fetterman has previously positioned himself as a centrist voice willing to challenge Democratic leadership, particularly on messaging and public safety.
