John Fetterman Faces Internal Struggles Amid Controversial Stance on Israel

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Pennsylvania Senator John Fetterman has sparked concern among staffers due to recent radical changes in behavior and political stance. Following a meeting with pro-Israel group J Street President Jeremy Ben-Ami in February, Fetterman made controversial remarks regarding the situation in Gaza, reportedly stating, “Let’s get back to killing,” a comment he later attempted to clarify as solely related to Hamas.

Former Chief of Staff Adam Jentleson has raised alarms about Fetterman’s mental health, particularly after he suffered a stroke in 2022. Jentleson, who resigned in April 2024, expressed worries in a letter to medical professionals about Fetterman’s erratic behavior, including signs of possible paranoia and a lack of medication adherence.

“I think John is on a bad trajectory and I’m really worried about him,” Jentleson wrote. He detailed an alarming shift in Fetterman’s attitude towards Israel and Palestine, stating some progressive supporters felt betrayed by his hardline stance. This rift has reportedly affected staff morale.

In the weeks following Hamas’ attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, Fetterman has maintained a vocal support for Israel’s military actions, escalating tensions with progressive staffers who once championed his campaign. His social media posts, particularly around the topic of Gaza, have been met with backlash from constituents and former supporters alike.

Moreover, Jentleson voiced concerns over Fetterman’s overall well-being, commenting on his lifestyle choices and the lack of regular medical check-ups. Reports indicate that several staff members left due to discomfort with Fetterman’s behavior, which they described as unpredictable and potentially dangerous.

Current staff members echo Jentleson’s concerns, suggesting Fetterman risks further alienating his base and jeopardizing his political future. There are doubts about his ability to run for re-election in 2028, and staffers worry about Fetterman’s overall mental health as the situation unfolds.

While Fetterman asserts he remains dedicated to his recovery and work, the continued changes in his public persona posture challenges for the Senator, indicating that the path ahead may be complex.