Sen. John Fetterman, D-Pa., and President-elect Donald Trump met over the weekend where they discussed, among other things, U.S. steel (The steel industry is vital to the Pennsylvania economy) and support for Israel.
Donald Trump and John Fetterman met at Mar-a-Lago, marking a significant political interaction given their party affiliations. According to reports and posts on X, Trump described the meeting as “totally fascinating,” praising Fetterman as “a fascinating man” with a “lovely” wife.
TRUMP ON FETTERMAN MEETING: “it was a totally fascinating … he's a fascinating man, and his wife is lovely … I couldn't be more impressed. He’s a commonsense person. He's not a liberal or conservative … which is beautiful.” pic.twitter.com/FLbVUQTt5v
— Election Wizard (@ElectionWiz) January 13, 2025
Trump also expressed being “impressed” by Fetterman, characterizing him as a “commonsense person” who transcends traditional labels of liberal or conservative.
This meeting was part of Fetterman’s approach to engage with the incoming administration, having previously met with several of Trump’s cabinet nominees and showing willingness to work across the aisle. Fetterman himself has described Trump as having “undeniable political talent” and has advocated for Democrats to “chill out” regarding Trump’s policies, suggesting a pragmatic approach to politics.
Fetterman has shown his willingness to break with his party to support common-sense legislation including being the first Democrat to sponsor the Laken Riley Act and has also shown support for a secure border.
Fetterman has also been vocal in saying that he believes Trump should be pardoned of the 34 felony charges that he was convicted of in New York, saying the case against Trump was politically motivated.
Fetterman was also the first Senate Democrat to meet with Pete Hegseth, Trump’s nominee for Secretary of Defense.
I’m not just a Senator for Democrats—I’m a Senator for all Pennsylvanians. It’s my job to find common ground and deliver results for everybody. And because nobody is my gatekeeper, I will meet with anyone to secure some wins, including President Trump.
Sen J. Fetterman-(D)PA