Senator John Fetterman said he would consider leaving the Democratic Party if it formally adopts an anti-Israel platform, citing concerns about antisemitism within his party.
The Pennsylvania Democrat made the remarks during an appearance on Fox News, where host Sean Hannity asked what could convince him to abandon the party. Fetterman has previously rejected calls to switch to the Republican Party but indicated the matter is not entirely closed.
The Conditions
Fetterman identified antisemitism and anti-Israel sentiment as his primary concern. “The one thing that absolutely is in common is just contempt for Israel that essentially is becoming just rank antisemitism,” Fetterman said.
The senator criticized party members over their positions on the Gaza conflict. He specifically referenced a recent Colorado election, saying a winning candidate refused to address an incident involving violence against Jewish supporters of Israeli hostages.
“It is that antisemitic,” Fetterman stated, noting a pattern he observed. He described a “strong correlation” between anti-Israel positions and antisemitism, alongside what he characterized as anti-American rhetoric from some party members.
Party Direction Concerns
Fetterman expressed alarm at the Democratic Party’s leftward movement, particularly the success of candidates backed by the Democratic Socialists of America in primary races. He questioned why party leadership does not more forcefully reject what he called “abhorrent beliefs” related to socialism and communism.
“What my real concern is, the Democratic Party is going to become, and put it into the platform, an anti-Israel party,” Fetterman said. He emphasized that if opposition to Israel’s right to exist becomes official party doctrine, he would reconsider his membership.
The senator also expressed concern about antisemitism flourishing on college campuses and across progressive spaces. “I’m deeply alarmed the way the Democratic Party is going after Israel and allowing rank antisemitism to just flourish,” he said.
Impact on Jewish Voters
Fetterman reflected on the Democratic Party’s standing with Jewish voters. “If I was one, it would be bleak as a Jewish voter in the Democratic Party,” he stated, highlighting the tension between the party and this constituency.
This story has been updated. CNN’s political team contributed to this report.
