Democratic Pennsylvania Sen. John Fetterman’s mental health struggles were reportedly far more severe than publicly acknowledged, according to a detailed exposé by New York Magazine. Based on interviews with the senator and multiple insiders, the report outlines erratic behavior, strained relationships, and widespread staff concern during and after his extended battle with depression.
Fetterman, who suffered a stroke in 2022 during his Senate campaign, was hospitalized in early 2023 at Walter Reed Medical Center for clinical depression. However, staff and aides close to him allege his condition remained troubling even after treatment. Former chief of staff Adam Jentleson resigned just one year after Fetterman’s release, citing repeated instances of instability and erratic conduct. Jentleson said Fetterman often skipped medication, displayed paranoid thinking, drove dangerously, and misled those around him.
Jentleson stated, “This is a man who could be leading Democrats out of the wilderness… but he’s struggling in a way that shouldn’t be hidden from the public.” Other staffers described Fetterman as “manic” and “unhinged,” adding that on certain days they actively prevented visitors from seeing him to avoid potential embarrassment or inappropriate behavior.
The report notes a particularly alarming incident in February 2023, when Fetterman reportedly wandered into the street during a retreat and was nearly hit by a car. On other occasions, staffers say he locked himself in his office, cried uncontrollably, and conducted emotional FaceTime calls before key Senate votes.
Strains have also extended into his personal life. His wife, Gisele, has clashed with him over political disagreements, particularly regarding his strong support for Israel amid the war with Hamas. One such conflict reportedly escalated during deliberations over whether to support Pete Hegseth’s confirmation for secretary of defense—a nomination Fetterman ultimately voted against after a day of emotional turmoil.
While Fetterman has rejected the article’s conclusions and characterized several of the quotes and stories as unfounded, his office has not issued a formal response. In a brief interview for the piece, the senator said simply, “Everything’s great,” denying any ongoing issues.
