Sen. John Fetterman (D-PA) stated his intention to meet with President-elect Donald Trump’s nominees before deciding on their confirmations, underscoring his duty as a U.S. Senator to approach the process with an open mind.
“I believe that it’s appropriate and the responsibility of a U.S. Senator to have a conversation with President-elect Trump’s nominees. That’s why I met with Elise Stefanik and Pete Hegseth, just wrapped with Tulsi Gabbard, and look forward to my meetings with others soon,” Fetterman posted on X.
Trump has nominated Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-NY) for U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, Pete Hegseth for Secretary of Defense, and former Rep. Tulsi Gabbard as Director of National Intelligence. Fetterman indicated he plans to base his votes on these nominees after thorough discussions.
While Fetterman has publicly voiced support for Stefanik, it remains uncertain if he will back Hegseth and Gabbard. “My votes will come from an open-mind and an informed opinion after having a conversation with them. That’s not controversial, it’s my job,” he noted.
Fetterman’s support for Stefanik comes amidst his consistent backing of Israel. Following the October 7, 2023, Hamas terror attack on Israel, Fetterman endorsed Stefanik’s stance on defunding the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) due to its alleged Hamas ties. “Always was a hard YES for @EliseStefanik… I support defunding UNRWA for its documented Hamas infiltration and fully look forward to her holding the @UN accountable for its endemic antisemitism and blatant anti-Israel views,” Fetterman stated.
Fetterman has also pledged support for Sen. Marco Rubio (R-FL) Trump’s nominee for Secretary of State. “Unsurprisingly, the other team’s pick will have political differences than my own,” Fetterman acknowledged. “That being said, my colleague @SenMarcoRubio is a strong choice and I look forward to voting for his confirmation.”
As confirmation hearings approach, Fetterman’s willingness to engage with Trump’s nominees highlights his commitment to a fair process, even across party lines.
