Fetterman Denounces WSJ Report as Smears, Apologizes for 1 Medicaid Text
Updated
Updated · CNN · Sep 6
Fetterman Denounces WSJ Report as Smears, Apologizes for 1 Medicaid Text
3 articles · Updated · CNN · Sep 6
Summary
CNN quoted John Fetterman this weekend calling a Wall Street Journal report the “third hit piece” by “disgruntled staffers” after former aides accused him of work apathy and skipped constituent meetings.
Three episodes drove the dispute: a text saying he was “not” worried about Medicaid cuts affecting CHOP, his absence from a funeral for 3 slain officers, and a missed meeting with 3 paralyzed veterans before a Fox News interview.
Fetterman said the CHOP message was a “dumb joke” and apologized, while arguing the leaked texts lacked context; he said he later met hospital officials, sent flowers to the officers’ families, and attended a June fundraiser in York.
The clash is widening as former staffers have launched an anonymous X account threatening more disclosures, while Fetterman faces slipping support among Democrats over Israel, Iran and immigration ahead of a possible 2028 reelection bid.
The allegations echo earlier warnings from ex-chief of staff Adam Jentleson and follow scrutiny of Fetterman’s mental health after his 6-week depression hospitalization in 2023.