Pennsylvania Democrats Plot 2028 Fetterman Challenge, Eye Chris Deluzio as Consensus Pick
Updated
Updated · CNN · Sep 13
Pennsylvania Democrats Plot 2028 Fetterman Challenge, Eye Chris Deluzio as Consensus Pick
3 articles · Updated · CNN · Sep 13
Summary
Pennsylvania Democrats are already planning for a 2028 Senate race without John Fetterman, with many leaders coalescing around Rep. Chris Deluzio after Fetterman’s speech to the Republican midterm convention.
Deluzio is drawing interest because he could bridge Gov. Josh Shapiro’s orbit and Bernie Sanders’ progressive wing, a coalition party leaders see as crucial if Fetterman runs again as a Democrat, independent or Republican.
The break has widened beyond 2028 maneuvering: multiple Democrats told CNN Fetterman would not be welcome on this fall’s campaign trail, even as Shapiro, Lt. Gov. Austin Davis and several House candidates face competitive races.
Other possible challengers include Rep. Brendan Boyle, Austin Davis and former Rep. Conor Lamb, though Pennsylvania’s usual Pittsburgh-Philadelphia split and a rising left flank could complicate any primary.
Washington Democrats are still handling Fetterman cautiously because they fear a party switch could help Republicans keep the Senate, even as Fetterman insists he remains a Democrat and would still be a 51st vote for the party.