Key facts
- Senator John Fetterman stated he would not change his pro-Israel stance, even if it costs him support within the Democratic Party.
- Fetterman's comments were made during an interview with Jon Stewart.
- The senator's position contrasts with the electoral gains of progressive Democrats focused on Palestinian rights.
- Fetterman defended Israel's actions as necessary for self-defense and prosecuting Hamas, Hezbollah, and Iran.
- He expressed concern over rising antisemitism and the use of 'Zionist' as a slur.
- Fetterman's articulation challenges were observed during the interview, linked to a previous stroke.
Senator John Fetterman has reiterated his strong support for Israel, stating he would not abandon the country regardless of political consequences within his own party. Speaking with podcaster Jon Stewart, Fetterman acknowledged that his stance has led to increased unpopularity among some Democrats, particularly as progressive voices advocating for Palestinian rights gain traction in elections.
Fetterman's comments come amid significant electoral wins for progressive candidates, such as Abdul El-Sayed in Michigan, who defeated a pro-Israel opponent. The senator emphasized his commitment to Israel, stating, "I would rather have people know what I happen to believe... My proud standing with Israel through everything after 10/7 has put me at odds more than anything." He further asserted that if he had to pick a side after the October 7th attacks and Iran's actions, he would always stand with Israel and support measures to protect it and prosecute Hamas, Hezbollah, and Iran.
When pressed by Stewart on the situation in Gaza, Fetterman acknowledged the deaths of children as "awful" but defended Israel's actions as destroying its enemies. He rejected the notion that Israel's actions constituted genocide, stating that only the Jewish community has experienced a true genocide. Fetterman also noted that the term "Zionist" is increasingly used as a slur within the Democratic Party and that he himself has been called a "Zio" by protesters. He questioned why students were not protesting against the Iranian government, suggesting it was because Iran is not an ally and receives no US funding.
Stewart challenged Fetterman's arguments, pointing out that the senator's articulation seemed to struggle at times, which the article attributes to a past stroke Fetterman suffered. The interview also touched upon broader Democratic Party dynamics, with Fetterman expressing skepticism about socialist policy platforms in swing states, a view Stewart characterized as a caricature.