Senator John Fetterman defends his Senate voting record amid media criticism, finding common ground with Republican Sen. Dave McCormick despite significant policy differences.
At a Glance
- Sen. Fetterman has missed 30 floor votes this year (10% of total), ranking third-worst in attendance for 2024
- Fetterman defended his absences as “throwaway” procedural votes that typically occur on Mondays when he travels home
- He characterized media coverage as a “smear campaign” against him for his positions on Israel and immigration
- Despite party differences, Fetterman and Republican Sen. Dave McCormick demonstrated bipartisan cooperation at a Boston event
- Fetterman praised McCormick for defending him against claims that his stroke-related health issues impact his job performance
Fetterman Responds to Absenteeism Criticism
Pennsylvania Senator John Fetterman pushed back against critics of his voting record during a recent Boston appearance alongside Republican Senator Dave McCormick. Fetterman, who has missed approximately 10% of Senate votes this year, defended his absences as primarily “throwaway” procedural votes scheduled on Mondays when he typically travels between Washington and his home state. The Democratic senator currently has the third-worst attendance record in the Senate for 2024, having missed 30 floor votes so far.
Fetterman categorized the media focus on his absences as part of a targeted “smear” campaign, suggesting the scrutiny stems from disagreement with his political positions rather than genuine concern about his attendance. “I missed some votes, but they’re throwaway votes,” Fetterman stated at the event. He specifically pointed to his pro-Israel stance and hardline position on illegal immigration as reasons he believes certain outlets have targeted him with negative coverage.
Selective Media Scrutiny and Health Concerns
During his defense, Fetterman highlighted what he views as a double standard in media coverage, noting that colleagues with similar or worse attendance records face far less scrutiny. He specifically mentioned Senators Bernie Sanders and Patty Murray, claiming they have missed numerous votes without facing comparable criticism. This selective focus, according to Fetterman, further supports his characterization of the coverage as politically motivated rather than substantive reporting on Senate attendance patterns.
Fetterman continues to manage health challenges stemming from a stroke he suffered during his 2022 campaign, which was followed by a clinical depression diagnosis. These health issues have been a persistent focus of media attention, leading to questions about his ability to fulfill his senatorial duties. The senator maintains that while his recovery continues, his health conditions do not impair his ability to represent Pennsylvania effectively in the Senate.
Bipartisan Cooperation Amid Policy Differences
The Boston event highlighted an unusual dynamic between Fetterman and McCormick, showcasing areas of bipartisan agreement despite their different party affiliations. Fetterman expressed gratitude toward McCormick for defending him against claims that his health issues affect his job performance. This display of mutual respect occurred even as the senators acknowledged significant policy disagreements, demonstrating the complex personal relationships that can exist across party lines in American politics.
Their policy differences became evident during discussions about Trump-backed legislation. Fetterman strongly opposed potential cuts to Medicaid and food stamps, emphasizing the importance of these safety net programs for vulnerable populations. McCormick, meanwhile, advocated for work requirements for benefit recipients, arguing such measures would help preserve these programs by ensuring they serve those most in need. Despite these substantive disagreements, both senators maintained respectful dialogue throughout their exchange.
Political Independence and Media Relations
Fetterman’s complaints about media coverage reflect his increasingly independent political stance within the Democratic Party. Since taking office, he has occasionally broken with party orthodoxy on issues like immigration enforcement and Middle East policy. These positions have made him a target of criticism from both progressive activists and conservative media outlets, placing him in a politically complex position as he navigates Senate responsibilities while recovering from serious health challenges.
The senator’s willingness to appear alongside a Republican colleague in a public forum underscores his commitment to demonstrating bipartisan cooperation, even as he defends his record against what he perceives as unfair media scrutiny. This balance between partisan advocacy and cross-party collaboration highlights the complicated role senators play in today’s highly polarized political environment, particularly those like Fetterman who don’t always align perfectly with their party’s positions on every issue.
