Senator John Fetterman (D-PA) has publicly rebuked members of his own party for their disruptive behavior during President Donald Trump’s recent address to Congress, calling their actions a “cavalcade of self-owns and unhinged petulance.” His remarks mark yet another instance of Fetterman distancing himself from the increasingly radical wing of the Democratic Party.
Democratic Disruptions During Trump’s Speech
Throughout the highly anticipated address, several Democrats engaged in performative protests, including:
- Signs and Messaging: Some lawmakers held up protest signs with slogans like “False” and “Save Medicaid.” Others wrote messages on whiteboards in an attempt to counter Trump’s statements in real-time.
- Jeering and Booing: Democrats audibly groaned and booed at key moments, refusing to acknowledge even bipartisan topics.
- Disrespectful Silence: Some remained seated and refused to applaud, even during heartwarming moments, such as when Trump honored a young cancer survivor.
- Disruptive Outbursts: The most extreme example came when Rep. Al Green (D-TX) was ejected from the chamber after repeatedly shouting objections during the president’s speech.
Fetterman Calls Out His Own Party
Fetterman, known for his blunt style, wasted no time in calling out his party’s behavior. He took to social media to criticize the spectacle, warning that these antics only made Trump look more presidential and that Democrats were embarrassing themselves with their theatrics.
“They don’t realize they’re just making noise that no one takes seriously anymore,” Fetterman remarked, cautioning that constant outrage was turning the party into background noise rather than a credible opposition.
Fetterman Continues to Break from the Democratic Playbook
This is not the first time Fetterman has distanced himself from his party’s more radical wing. In recent months, he has:
- Told Democrats to “chill out” and stop overreacting to Trump, warning that their hysteria is doing more harm than good.
- Shown a willingness to work with Trump on certain issues, signaling a more pragmatic, results-oriented approach.
- Criticized the party’s obsession with identity politics, saying they need to focus on real issues that affect everyday Americans.
Democrats in Disarray as Fetterman Warns of Self-Sabotage
Fetterman’s remarks underscore deep divisions within the Democratic Party about how to handle Trump’s presidency. While many Democrats continue to lean into performative resistance, others—like Fetterman—are warning that these tactics are not winning over voters.
With Trump’s approval ratings climbing and Democrats looking increasingly desperate, Fetterman’s warning may be one of the last chances for his party to correct course before the 2026 elections. Whether they listen remains to be seen—but if their antics during Trump’s speech are any indication, they may be too far gone to change direction.