During a bipartisan forum, Pennsylvania Democratic Senator John Fetterman criticized his party’s approach to immigration, labeling the recent influx of illegal entries as ‘unacceptable.’ His remarks came as part of a broader discussion on border security, which he framed as a critical national security issue. Fetterman also referenced the Colorado terror attack, attributing it to an illegal immigrant and highlighting the pervasive anti-Semitic sentiments on college campuses, which he said put him at odds with his base.
Fetterman, who drew the ire of many Democrats when he supported the Laken Riley Act, explained how he has been at ‘odds with his base’ but his values have ‘never changed’ on the immigration issue, which polling shows was a key factor in President Donald Trump’s election victory in November. The senator emphasized that his focus remains on finding common ground with Republicans to achieve legislative successes for Pennsylvania and the nation.
During the forum with GOP Senator Dave McCormick, Fetterman also addressed the handling of anti-Semitism on college campuses, noting that the issue has escalated beyond mere rhetoric to a widespread problem. He called for a firm stance against such sentiments, stating that his political alignment with Israel has placed him at odds with certain factions within his party.
The Senate Project series brings together sitting senators from opposing parties for civil dialogue about current political issues, with the goal of identifying solutions and bridging partisan divides. The series reflects the shared mission of the Kennedy Institute and Hatch Foundation to advance bipartisanship. Kennedy Institute Chairman Bruce A. Percelay emphasized the importance of open dialogue in democracy, noting that the forum represents a valuable contribution to public discourse.
In his remarks, Fetterman underscored the need for bipartisan efforts to address border security and anti-Semitism. He acknowledged the challenges of balancing these issues with the party’s broader agenda but expressed confidence in the potential for cooperation. The senator’s comments have sparked both criticism and support within his party, highlighting the growing divide over immigration policy and national security concerns.
The discussion also touched upon the recent Colorado terror attack, which the FBI has classified as an act of terrorism. Fetterman’s comments on this incident reflect a broader concern about the relationship between illegal immigration and national security threats. He called for a comprehensive approach to address these issues, which he argued must involve both law enforcement and legislative action to ensure the safety of American citizens.