Senator Fetterman faces backlash from a key progressive group, threatening his political future.
Story Highlights
- The Working Families Party plans to challenge Senator John Fetterman in the Democratic primary.
- Fetterman accused of aligning with Republicans, sparking progressive outrage.
- WFP launches a recruitment portal for potential challengers and supporters.
Working Families Party’s Campaign Against Fetterman
The Pennsylvania Working Families Party (WFP), previously supporters of Senator John Fetterman, has announced its intention to support a primary challenger against him in the upcoming 2028 Democratic primary. The WFP claims Fetterman has betrayed working-class interests by siding with Republicans on key issues, thus prompting their decision to seek new leadership.
Since his election in 2022, Fetterman has shifted his stance on several issues, including Israel policy and bipartisan government shutdown votes. This rightward pivot has drawn significant criticism from progressive factions. The WFP, a grassroots organization focused on populist economic issues, has been vocal about its dissatisfaction with Fetterman’s alignment with Trump-era policies and his support for bills that have reportedly raised healthcare premiums for hundreds of thousands of Pennsylvanians.
Health Concerns and Political Implications
Fetterman’s health has also been a topic of concern. In early November 2025, he was hospitalized after experiencing a ventricular fibrillation flare-up, which raised questions about his ability to complete his term. This situation has added urgency to the WFP’s campaign to find a primary challenger. The group has already launched an online portal named “Primary Fetterman,” which aims to recruit candidates and volunteers while collecting donations.
As of late November 2025, the WFP reported over 425 individuals interested in participating in the campaign, signaling significant momentum toward the 2028 primary challenge. Such developments highlight potential fractures within the Democratic Party in Pennsylvania, a critical swing state.
Potential Impact on the Democratic Party
The WFP’s actions could have substantial implications for the Democratic Party. In the short term, it energizes progressive organizing in Pennsylvania, thereby pressuring Fetterman on his voting record. In the long term, the challenge could create divisions within the party, particularly if the incumbent senator is perceived as weakened. This situation could inadvertently benefit the GOP by fracturing the Democratic vote.
The WFP’s growing influence in Democratic primaries is notable, as it demonstrates the potential for third-party progressive groups to shape election outcomes. This campaign against Fetterman could serve as a precedent, inspiring similar efforts in other regions.
Sources:
Working Families Party pledges to support a John Fetterman primary challenger
WFP’s Primary Fetterman website