Pennsylvania Sen. John Fetterman criticized the idea that Democrats have “lost the plot” when political debates turn into name-calling, speaking Monday on Jesse Watters Primetime ahead of what could become one of the longest government shutdowns in U.S. history.
“I refuse to call you a fascist or a Nazi,” Fetterman told host Jesse Watters. “I’m not going to compare anyone to Hitler. That’s wrong—and when you resort to that, you’ve lost the plot.”
A long-time critic of government shutdowns, Fetterman emphasized the importance of talking with people on “the other side,” saying productive conversations matter more than partisan attacks.
Fetterman recalled leading efforts in early 2025 to keep the government open—and said he would take the same stand today. He called shutdowns “wrong” and said the human impact far outweighs political gamesmanship.
Tension between Senate Republicans and Democrats continues as both sides clash over how to approach Obamacare subsidy disputes. Republicans are weighing the possibility of extending the government funding deadline into January.
During the interview, Watters pressed Fetterman about his alignment on several key issues.
“You’re agreeing with Republicans on the shutdown, on Israel, and on the woke stuff,” Watters said. “Are you close to becoming a Republican?”
Fetterman rejected that idea.
“No, no, I’d be a terrible Republican,” he replied. “But I’ll be an honest Democrat who’s not afraid to challenge views I disagree with.”
He pointed to the 42 million Americans who rely on Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits as one major reason reopening the government is urgent. He noted that unions connected to the shutdown are demanding it end and said supporting working families should be a shared priority.
“Why don’t we agree with them and get this done?” he asked.
Fetterman also mentioned that representing Pennsylvania—a “very purple” state—keeps him grounded, especially in a political climate where national narratives can overshadow local realities.
“Socialism might be taking over New York City tomorrow,” he said, referencing the upcoming mayoral election, “but that’s not the future of my party. New York City politics are not a national model.”
He added that knowing many people who voted for different candidates reminds him there are “two sides,” and that progress requires finding a way forward together.
