Trump Urges Democratic Senator John Fetterman to Become a Republican

President Donald Trump expressed his desire to see Democratic Senator John Fetterman of Pennsylvania switch parties. Trump’s comments have reignited discussion about Fetterman’s political future, especially after recent departures from his party’s principles.

Speaking to reporters at Joint Base Andrews following a rally in Tennessee, Trump stated, “I’d love to see him as a Republican. If you look at the polls, he does better as a Republican than he does as a Democrat.” Trump praised Fetterman as a “very solid person” with “great common sense.” He also acknowledged speaking with Fetterman’s parents.

These remarks mark some of Trump’s most direct efforts to encourage Fetterman to join the GOP, particularly significant with the Senate’s balance of power uncertain ahead of the upcoming midterm elections. Newsweek has reached out to Fetterman’s office for a comment.

Fetterman Repeatedly Dismisses Party Switch Rumors

Despite speculation, Fetterman continues to affirm his commitment to the Democratic Party. In The Washington Post, he labeled himself a “terrible Republican who still votes overwhelmingly with Democrats.” Yet, his actions sometimes diverge from party lines, stirring unease among Democrats.

Last month, Fetterman fueled discussion by recording a video for a Republican convention. In the video, he praised Republican Pennsylvania Senator Dave McCormick and criticized political extremism. “I’m always going to stand with America,” he declared, highlighting his opposition to extremism and socialism.

Trump’s remarks coincide with Democratic efforts to regain Senate control. Democrats need four more seats, but the path remains challenging.

Insights from Polling on John Fetterman

Fetterman’s positions, particularly on Israel and collaboration with Republicans, have appealed to conservative voters. This appeal has strained his relationship with Democrats. Trump noted, “it’s going to be hard” for Fetterman in a 2028 Democratic primary.

A poll by Inquirer/New York Times/Siena University released in August revealed that 73% of Pennsylvania Republicans viewed Fetterman favorably, compared to 63% favoring Senator Dave McCormick. However, among Democrats, only 22% viewed Fetterman favorably, a steep decline from 74% in 2024. Conversely, 63% held an unfavorable view.

A Quinnipiac University poll in February 2026 showed similar results: 73% of Republicans approved of Fetterman, alongside 22% of Democrats and 48% of independents. These figures illustrate Fetterman’s unique political standing: a Democratic senator more favored by Republicans.

Implications of Party Switches in Senate

The Senate has experienced notable party switches with significant impacts on power dynamics. In 2001, Jim Jeffords of Vermont’s departure from the Republican Party gave Democrats a slim majority. Similarly, in 2009, Arlen Specter of Pennsylvania moved to the Democratic Party, bolstering their majority under President Obama’s leadership.

Currently, Fetterman remains aligned with the Democratic Party despite strong Republican support. Suggestions of a party switch have been consistently rebuffed.

Note: Newsweek’s team used the AI assistant Martyn in crafting this article. Learn more about Martyn here.

Correction: An earlier version of this article misstated details from a Quinnipiac University poll concerning John Fetterman’s approval ratings.