Progressive Backers Launch Campaign to Primary Senator John Fetterman in 2028
HARRISBURG, Pa. — The Pennsylvania affiliate of the Working Families Party has escalated its efforts to unseat Senator John Fetterman in the upcoming 2028 Democratic primary by launching a dedicated website, PrimaryFetterman.com. The site accuses Fetterman of having “sold out” the progressive base that supported his 2022 campaign, signaling a growing rift within the party’s left wing.
“We supported John Fetterman in 2022. Since then, he’s sold us out. It’s time to replace him,” the homepage declares, reflecting deep dissatisfaction among some activists who once championed the senator’s progressive agenda. The Working Families Party PAC is financing the website, which criticizes Fetterman for backing more of former President Trump’s nominees than any other Democratic senator, and for frequently missing votes and Senate work.
Fetterman, who represents Pennsylvania — often described as the nation’s most politically competitive or “purple” state — has sought to balance his progressive roots with a pragmatic approach to governance. He told Fox News last November that any primary challenger would attempt to make him look bad, underscoring his confidence in his standing with voters.
The Working Families Party, known for its progressive activism and influence in Democratic primaries, has increasingly positioned itself as a watchdog over elected officials it views as insufficiently left-leaning. Their move to target Fetterman reflects broader tensions within the Democratic Party as it navigates internal debates over ideology and electability.
Political observers note that Fetterman’s support for some moderate or bipartisan initiatives, along with his Senate voting record, have alienated parts of his progressive coalition. The Working Families Party’s campaign aims to rally voters who feel betrayed by what they perceive as Fetterman’s drift away from the policies and promises that helped secure his initial victory.
While the primary challenge is still in its early stages, the launch of PrimaryFetterman.com marks a significant escalation. It provides a platform for organizing opposition and disseminating critiques of the senator’s record. The website highlights specific votes and decisions, framing them as evidence that Fetterman has prioritized political expediency over progressive principles.
Fetterman’s office has not issued a formal response to the new campaign. However, his previous statements suggest he remains focused on representing all Pennsylvanians, emphasizing the state’s diverse political landscape. Analysts suggest that his ability to appeal to moderate and independent voters will be critical in any future primary and general election contests.
The Working Families Party’s challenge is part of a broader trend of progressive groups seeking to influence Democratic primaries nationwide. As the 2028 election cycle approaches, similar intra-party battles are expected to intensify, highlighting the ongoing struggle over the party’s direction.
For more on the Working Families Party and its political activities, visit their official site at workingfamilies.org. Information on Senate voting records can be found at the U.S. Senate official website, while details on Pennsylvania’s political landscape are available through the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania official portal. For broader context on primary election rules and procedures, the Federal Election Commission offers comprehensive resources.
The unfolding contest in Pennsylvania will be closely watched as a bellwether for the Democratic Party’s internal dynamics and the influence of progressive activism in shaping future leadership.
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