Fetterman Targeted by Coordinated Media Smear Over Pro-Israel Stance, Colleagues Say

Pennsylvania Senator John Fetterman is under fire, and it’s not just the usual political rough-and-tumble. A barrage of media reports targeting the Democrat’s health, popularity, and even his signature hoodie style has sparked bipartisan outrage, with colleagues calling it a coordinated smear campaign. From Pittsburgh to Capitol Hill, the narrative is clear: this is no accident.

Democratic polls allegedly show Fetterman’s support dipping below 50% in his home turf near Pittsburgh, though the numbers remain unverified. Critics point to his unapologetic pro-Israel stance as the real trigger for the attacks. Rep. Ritchie Torres, D-N.Y., didn’t mince words: “Leaking hit pieces isn’t how you show concern for someone’s mental health.” Torres, who’s faced similar pushback for his own Israel views, sees this as a political vendetta dressed up as journalism.

Surprisingly, Republicans are stepping up to bat for Fetterman. Sen. David McCormick, R-Pa., called the attacks “vicious” and praised Fetterman’s authenticity. Sens. Tom Cotton, R-Ark., and Katie Britt, R-Ala., echoed the sentiment, slamming the media for targeting Fetterman’s independent streak. Even Sen. Charles Grassley, R-Iowa, weighed in, urging the press to back off.

The media’s focus on Fetterman’s health—more intense in a few days than coverage of other politicians’ issues over years—has raised eyebrows. Conservative commentators and local voices, like Philadelphia radio host Nick Kayal, smell a rat. “This isn’t journalism; it’s propaganda,” said one Pittsburgh media figure, pointing to a string of critical articles from major outlets.

Fetterman, a towering figure in both stature and principle, remains a lightning rod. His refusal to bow to party orthodoxy, especially on divisive issues like Israel, has made him a target. Yet, the bipartisan defense rallying around him suggests the smear campaign might backfire, uniting unlikely allies in a divided political landscape.