A recent internal poll has revealed that John Fetterman’s support is declining among Democratic voters in his home region of Pittsburgh, raising concerns about his political future and possibly sparking a primary challenge in 2028. The survey, conducted by a Democratic firm for the upcoming mayoral primary, has shocked some Democrats in the state and highlighted Fetterman’s potential vulnerability.
The poll indicates that Fetterman is performing poorly with likely Democratic voters in the Pittsburgh area. According to the findings, 49% of these voters have unfavorable views of him, compared to 46% who view him favorably. In contrast, Governor Josh Shapiro, a fellow Democrat, enjoys a much higher approval rating of 82% among the same group. This disparity raises significant questions about Fetterman’s position within the Democratic Party.
The survey’s results have prompted some Democrats in Pennsylvania to consider the possibility of a primary challenge against Fetterman in 2028, especially as the political landscape continues to shift. Fetterman, who has built his political brand around his strong ties to Pittsburgh, is now facing a significant challenge in maintaining his support among the very voters who helped elect him.
This internal poll has sparked discussions among Democrats, with some strategists expressing concerns about Fetterman’s standing within the party. The survey was conducted before a recent article in New York magazine raised questions about Fetterman’s mental and physical health, adding another layer of complexity to the situation. Despite these concerns, Fetterman has maintained that he is fit for office and is prepared to serve through the end of his term in 2029.
Fetterman’s political challenges are compounded by his evolving relationship with former President Donald Trump. While some Democrats have criticized him for his positions on Israel and for meeting with Trump, Fetterman has defended his actions by stating that he is willing to engage with anyone if it helps deliver benefits for Pennsylvania and the nation. This stance has led to varying opinions within the party, with some strategists suggesting that his approach to Trump could be a more significant issue for his support among Democratic voters than his position on Israel.
The poll also revealed that Fetterman’s standing among progressive Democrats in Pittsburgh is particularly low. While only 22% of self-identified progressive Democrats hold a favorable view of him, 74% view him unfavorably. This indicates a significant divide within the Democratic base, with Fetterman’s support seemingly bottoming out among the party’s left wing.
As the political pressures mount, some Democrats in the state are already considering scenarios where Fetterman might step down and exploring potential replacements. However, Fetterman has consistently denied any fitness concerns, dismissing the recent New York article as a ‘one-source hit piece.’ His insistence on remaining in office, despite the growing scrutiny, suggests that he is determined to continue his political journey in Pennsylvania.