Democrats have set a new low in American politics by allowing Sen. John Fetterman to return to his duties despite his apparent inability to fulfill them. After an extended hospitalization for clinical depression, Fetterman, who suffered a stroke last year, re-assumed his position as chairman of the Senate Agriculture Committee’s Subcommittee on Food and Nutrition, Specialty Crops, Organics, and Research. The senator’s opening statement drew widespread criticism, with many questioning his fitness for office.
People took to social media to express their concern over Fetterman’s performance, which was described as “frightening” and “embarrassing for Pennsylvania.” Republican Communications Director Harrison Fields mocked Democrats for continuing to support Fetterman despite his deteriorating health. This double standard is glaring, considering the left’s calls for Republican Sen. Dianne Feinstein to step down.
.@SenFeinstein right now. https://t.co/sMShJp0JvP pic.twitter.com/abJpV8D40j
— Harrison Fields (@HarrisonWFields) April 19, 2023
Even reporters were appalled at Fetterman’s reading abilities, with one stating she has “heard second graders with better reading abilities.” Fetterman’s spokesperson, Joe Calvello, defended him, claiming that Republicans had already attacked the senator’s health, but Pennsylvanians supported him nonetheless. While it’s true that everyone deserves empathy and understanding, the reality remains that Fetterman’s condition seems to be preventing him from effectively doing his job.
Fetterman’s return to Congress was marked by his casual appearance, wearing a black hoodie and shorts after six weeks of treatment for clinical depression. The senator avoided questions from the press, giving only a vague statement: “It’s great to be back. Thank you.” This only fueled concerns from Republicans, who pointed out that cognition, speech comprehension, emotional balance, and attendance were apparently not prerequisites for a career in Democratic politics.
Democrat Senator John Fetterman refuses to take questions as he returns to the Capitol for the first time since mid-February pic.twitter.com/JyTRQ1sIKe
— RNC Research (@RNCResearch) April 17, 2023
Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk sarcastically welcomed Fetterman back, highlighting the inconsistencies in the Democrats’ approach to health issues. Rep. Byron Donalds (R-Fla.) also chimed in, questioning how Democrats could call for Feinstein’s resignation while excusing Fetterman’s declining health.
Despite the legitimate concerns raised, Fetterman is scheduled to chair his first subcommittee hearing this week. His office issued a statement targeting Republicans for their efforts to enforce stricter work requirements for individuals receiving food stamp benefits through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Fetterman’s office boldly claimed that billionaires receiving tax cuts would not happen “on his watch.”
The fact remains that Fetterman’s brain injury following his stroke has likely left him with permanent damage, as confirmed by his chief of staff. It’s a sad day for American politics when Democrats are willing to overlook the obvious incapacity of one of their own to serve effectively in the office.
The people of Pennsylvania deserve better representation, and the nation as a whole should demand higher standards for those who serve in Congress. Let’s hope that, in the future, the well-being of our nation takes precedence over political point-scoring.
Sources: ConservativeBrief, FoxNews