Fetterman To Meet With Trump
In a surprising move, Senator John Fetterman (D-Pa.) has announced that he will meet with President-elect Donald Trump at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida. This meeting marks the first time since the November 2024 election that a Democratic U.S. senator from the upper chamber is willing to engage with the incoming Republican president. Fetterman, who won his Senate seat in Pennsylvania in 2022, has expressed that he’s willing to work with anyone, regardless of party affiliation, if it benefits the people of his state and the country.
In a statement to The Hill, Fetterman explained, “President Trump sent me and invitation, and I took it. I am the Senator for all Pennsylvanians—not just the left in Pennsylvania.” He added that no one will be his “gatekeeper,” signaling his willingness to engage with leaders from across the political spectrum in order to get things done for Pennsylvania.
Fetterman’s decision to meet with Trump is notable, given the deep divisions between the two parties in Washington. The senator, who has occasionally been critical of his own party’s more extreme factions, has even hinted at supporting some of Trump’s Cabinet picks, such as Senator Marco Rubio for Secretary of State. Fetterman has not ruled out backing more controversial choices either, including Pete Hegseth for Defense Secretary and Kash Patel to head the FBI.
This willingness to engage with Republicans and even support some of Trump’s policies could be a turning point for Fetterman, who has at times found himself at odds with his own party’s more progressive wing. Just days ago, Fetterman co-sponsored the Laken Riley Act, an immigration bill that passed the House with significant support from House Republicans and 48 Democrats.
Moreover, Fetterman has also weighed in on President Trump’s recent discussions regarding the acquisition of Greenland. Drawing a parallel to the Louisiana Purchase, Fetterman stated, “If anyone thinks that’s bonkers, it’s like, well, remember the Louisiana Purchase?” This shows a pragmatic side to Fetterman, who seems open to unconventional ideas if they can benefit the nation.
Despite past political clashes, including Trump’s harsh criticisms of Fetterman’s drug use during the 2022 Senate race, the two may now find common ground on key issues. For Fetterman, this meeting signals a shift towards working across the aisle in order to serve his constituents and the country, a message that could resonate with many Pennsylvanians who are tired of gridlock in Washington.
