Senator John Fetterman of Pennsylvania has forcefully rejected recent allegations questioning his ability to serve in the Senate, calling a report that details claims of erratic conduct a “hit piece” and affirming his commitment to complete his term.
In a recent interview from his Senate office, Fetterman discussed his treatment for clinical depression and said he is closely following a care plan recommended by his doctors. He dismissed the allegations that cited former and anonymous current staffers claiming he has been volatile and difficult to work for.
“It’s a one-source hit piece,” Fetterman said, referring to the article. “Maybe two or three anonymous, disgruntled staffers saying completely false things.”
Fetterman has been candid in the past about his mental health struggles, including receiving treatment for depression after his demanding 2022 Senate campaign. The report suggested that his mental health condition may be more complex than previously disclosed. It quoted his former chief of staff and included anonymous accounts alleging reckless behavior and potential issues with medication adherence.
Fetterman denied those suggestions, calling them “outrageous,” and said his doctors confirmed that he has no other mental health diagnoses beyond what he has shared publicly.
“I’ve been totally open about my depression,” he said. “None of these other things are true. Someone tried to access my medical records and leak them as part of this weird grudge — it’s all part of the same hit piece.”
In 2023, Fetterman checked into Walter Reed National Military Medical Center to receive care for clinical depression. He previously suffered a stroke during his Senate run in 2022.
The article also cited claims that Fetterman might have stopped taking his prescribed medication, a claim he firmly denied. He stated that he’s been attending all his medical appointments and following his treatment plan carefully.
“It’s incredibly invasive,” Fetterman said. “Why are people talking about anyone’s personal medical details? Most people would agree that’s really inappropriate.”
The former staffer quoted in the article said he chose to speak publicly out of concern for Fetterman and the people around him. But Fetterman dismissed the motivation, saying, “If you’re truly concerned about someone, you talk to them directly. You don’t go to the media.”
That former staffer stood by his remarks and said he hopes the senator receives the help he needs.
Fetterman made it clear that he intends to finish the remaining four years of his term. When asked about a potential reelection bid in 2028, he responded, “We’re not talking about ’28. Who knows what’s going to happen in ’28?”
He also addressed reports of high staff turnover in his office and acknowledged political friction, especially around his vocal support for Israel, which has drawn criticism from the progressive wing of the Democratic Party. He pointed to disagreements on various issues, including his vote to avoid a government shutdown, as part of the backdrop to the criticisms.
“There’s been conflict here,” Fetterman said. “I’ve made my positions clear. I don’t understand why certain people have chosen to create these circumstances, but this whole thing is just a hit piece.”
Regarding claims about his driving habits, Fetterman confirmed he was in a car accident last year but denied telling anyone he had fallen asleep at the wheel. He called the story’s details “either completely false or half-truths,” and maintained he is a safe driver.
He expressed appreciation for the support he’s received from fellow senators but declined to say whether he had spoken with Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer since the article was published.
“I think if Senator Schumer has concerns, this article isn’t one of them,” he said. “Of all the problems out there, I don’t think this is one of the big ones.”
