Senator John Fetterman’s erratic behavior in a recent meeting has raised red flags about his mental health. The Pennsylvania Democrat, known for his casual style and populist rhetoric, has drawn scrutiny after a troubling outburst in his Washington office. This incident, coupled with concerns from his former chief of staff, paints a worrying picture of a senator struggling to balance personal challenges and public duties.
According to AP News, Fetterman, who survived a stroke in 2022, reportedly lost control during a meeting with teachers' union representatives. The episode occurred just before a New York Magazine article detailed concerns about his mental health from former staff. His actions have sparked debate about his fitness to serve, especially as he drifts from the Democratic Party’s progressive orthodoxy.
In the meeting, Fetterman shouted repeatedly, questioning why “everybody is mad” at him and slamming his hands on his desk. His behavior left union representatives rattled and reduced a staff member to tears. The staffer abruptly ended the meeting, ushering the shaken teachers into the hallway.
Two sources, speaking anonymously to The Associated Press, described the chaotic scene. Fetterman’s outburst included long, repetitive rants and expressions of paranoia, such as asking why “everyone hates” him. This behavior echoes concerns raised by his former chief of staff, Adam Jentleson, in a 2024 letter.
Jentleson’s letter to neuropsychiatrist Dr. David Williamson outlined Fetterman’s troubling trajectory. It claimed the senator had abandoned his recovery plan, stopped seeing doctors, and might not be taking prescribed medications. Jentleson also noted Fetterman’s reckless driving and tendency to isolate himself from colleagues.
Fetterman’s health struggles are well-documented. In 2022, he suffered a stroke during his Senate campaign, followed by a 2023 hospitalization for depression at Walter Reed. He also battles cardiomyopathy and an auditory processing disorder, which requires him to use real-time transcription devices.
Despite these challenges, Fetterman won his Senate seat in 2022, campaigning in hoodies and gym shorts. His unpolished style resonated with Pennsylvania’s working-class voters, but his tenure has been marked by controversy. He has clashed with fellow Democrats, particularly over his support for Israel and willingness to work with President Donald Trump.
Fetterman’s political evolution has confounded many. Once a Bernie Sanders supporter in 2016, he later backed Joe Biden in 2020 and Kamala Harris in 2024. His recent cooperation with Trump, including meetings and voting for some of Trump’s nominees, has alienated Pennsylvania Democrats.
Some Democrats, like Pennsylvania Democratic Party chairman Sharif Street, express concern for Fetterman’s well-being. “People are concerned about his health,” Street said. “They want to make sure he’s OK.”
Conservatives, however, have rallied behind Fetterman, praising his willingness to break from party lines. Comedian Bill Maher even suggested Fetterman run for president in 2028. This support underscores Fetterman’s appeal to those frustrated with elitist political norms.
Fetterman dismissed concerns about his health as overblown. “It’s a hit piece,” he told a reporter, calling the New York Magazine story a “one-source” attack. He insisted there’s “no news” and that his critics are exaggerating.
In a statement, Fetterman described the teachers' union meeting as a “spirited conversation” about frustration with Trump’s education cuts. “I will always support our teachers,” he said. He vowed to fight efforts to turn Pennsylvania’s public schools into voucher programs.
Yet, incidents like a 2025 video showing Fetterman arguing with a pilot over a seatbelt on a Pittsburgh flight fuel doubts. Jentleson’s letter warned that Fetterman had “dismantled” an early-warning system meant to monitor his health. This included pushing out those tasked with supporting his recovery.
Fetterman’s openness about his mental health struggles has earned him sympathy. “I was in a very dark place,” he told podcast host Joe Rogan in November 2024. His candor resonates with Americans who value authenticity over polished political facades.
Still, Fetterman’s behavior raises legitimate questions about his ability to serve. Pennsylvania voters, who elected him for his working-class grit, deserve a senator who can handle the job. As Fetterman navigates his challenges, his actions will determine whether he can regain trust or spiral further into controversy.
