U.S. Senator John Fetterman of Pennsylvania is pushing back against a recent New York Magazine article that raises concerns about his health and behavior, dismissing it as a “hit piece”. The article, published last week, cited anonymous sources and Fetterman’s former chief of staff, Adam Jentleson, who expressed worries about the senator’s well-being and adherence to his recovery plan following a stroke in 2022 and a subsequent battle with depression.
Fetterman’s Response
Fetterman responded to the article by calling it “a one-source story with a couple of anonymous sources, a hit piece from a very left publication”. He made these remarks to NBC News reporter Kate Santaliz, who shared a video of the exchange on X. When asked if he was taking his medication, Fetterman replied, “Again… a hit piece, anonymous source,” before the video cuts off.
He also told CNN that the story “involved maybe two or three anonymous, disgruntled staffers saying just absolutely false things”. Fetterman maintains that his doctors say he is “great” and that he is following his recovery plan. “It’s incredibly invasive, and why are people talking about peoples’ personal medical things?” he questioned. He affirmed his commitment to serving his full term in the Senate.
The Allegations
The New York Magazine article paints a picture of a senator whose health is in decline, with staffers claiming they “no longer recognize the man they once knew”. The article detailed arguments between Fetterman and his wife, Gisele, including disagreements over the senator’s strong support for Israel.
Adam Jentleson, Fetterman’s former chief of staff, reportedly sent an email in May 2024 to Dr. David Williamson, the medical director of the traumatic brain injury and neuropsychiatry unit at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, who oversaw Fetterman’s treatment for depression. In the email, Jentleson expressed concerns about Fetterman’s health and whether he was following his recovery plan. He mentioned “warning signs” such as “conspiratorial thinking,” “megalomania,” rambling, declining to read briefings and memos, and “lying in ways that are painfully, awkwardly obvious to everyone in the room”. Jentleson stated, “I think John is on a bad trajectory, and I’m really worried about him”. He also expressed concern that Fetterman “won’t be with us for much longer” if things didn’t change.
The article also alleges that Fetterman was missing regular checkups, driving recklessly, and had bought a gun.
Gisele Fetterman’s Defense
Gisele Fetterman has defended her husband, stating that Jentleson was trying to hurt the senator’s reputation by sharing “scary, untrue stories about John’s health”. She claimed that these stories “didn’t hold water” after she checked with Fetterman’s doctors.
Background: Fetterman’s Health Challenges
Fetterman’s health has been a topic of public discussion since he suffered a stroke in May 2022, during his Senate campaign. The stroke left him with auditory processing issues, requiring him to use technology to transcribe conversations. In early 2023, just weeks after being sworn into office, he spent six weeks at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center for treatment of clinical depression.
Despite these challenges, Fetterman has been open about his struggles and has continued to serve in the Senate.
Reactions and Implications
The New York Magazine article and Fetterman’s response have sparked a range of reactions. Some conservative commentators suggest that the criticism of Fetterman stems from his vocal support of Israel. Others question his fitness for office.
The article has also highlighted the challenges that individuals with mental health issues face in the public eye. Fetterman’s situation raises questions about the balance between transparency and privacy when it comes to the health of public figures.
