Sen. John Fetterman, a Democratic senator from Pennsylvania, has gained a reputation for being a maverick in the Senate, willing to go against his own party. However, despite this image, his voting record does not always align with this perception, specifically on the issue of preventing biological males from participating in women’s and girls’ sports. Fetterman recently voted with every other Democratic senator to block a bill that would have prohibited men from competing in women’s sports, a measure that has widespread support among Americans.
The proposed bill would require Title IX to define gender based on a person’s reproductive biology and genetics at birth, rather than allowing for adjustments based on gender identity. Fetterman has also stirred controversy by openly supporting Israel and meeting with former President Donald Trump following his 2024 election victory. In addition, he co-sponsored the Laken Riley Act, a Republican-backed immigration enforcement bill that was ultimately signed into law. Despite these actions, Fetterman has not hesitated to criticize his own party, particularly following disruptions during the president’s joint address to Congress.
Despite his reputation as a Democratic rebel, Fetterman’s voting record tells a different story. In 2023, he voted in line with President Joe Biden 97.3% of the time, according to analysis by ABC News’ 538. He did not make the list of Senate Democrats who most frequently opposed Biden, a group that included senators like Ed Markey, Elizabeth Warren, Jeff Merkley, and Ron Wyden. Fetterman’s office did not provide comment on his voting record to Fox News Digital.
Fetterman’s willingness to break from his party on certain issues, such as supporting Israel and meeting with Trump, has garnered attention in the Senate. However, his actual voting habits do not always reflect this independent streak. Despite co-sponsoring a Republican-backed immigration bill and criticizing his party’s behavior, Fetterman has aligned with President Biden on the majority of votes. It remains to be seen how his reputation as a maverick within the Democratic Party will continue to evolve as he serves in the Senate.
Overall, Sen. John Fetterman’s actions in the Senate have led to a mixed reputation as a rebel within the Democratic Party. While he has taken controversial stances, such as supporting Israel and meeting with President Trump, his voting record does not always align with this image. Fetterman’s willingness to break from his party on certain issues, combined with his consistent alignment with President Biden on most votes, has created a complex and multifaceted public persona for the senator. His future actions in the Senate may shed further light on his true political beliefs and priorities.
