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Fetterman Looks Forward to Working with McCormick for a “Better Pennsylvania”

A New Chapter in Pennsylvania Politics as Fetterman and McCormick Agree to Collaborate

Pennsylvania’s political scene took a turn this week as newly sworn-in U.S. Senator John Fetterman (D-Pa.) signaled his openness to working with his Republican colleague, Sen. Dave McCormick, for the betterment of the state. Their meeting, held over dinner in Pittsburgh, was marked by a “great discussion” as both senators expressed their shared commitment to advancing Pennsylvania’s interests.

The unexpected camaraderie between the two comes just days after McCormick took office as the state’s junior senator, following a hard-fought election where he emerged victorious over long-time incumbent Bob Casey. While Fetterman, a staunch supporter of Casey, is set to miss his mentor’s presence in the Senate, he emphasized his readiness to forge new relationships and engage with McCormick as a team.

A Growing Bipartisanship

Despite the heated rhetoric of their past campaigns, Fetterman’s remarks at the Pennsylvania Farm Show were a clear indication of his desire to put partisanship aside and focus on what matters most: Pennsylvania’s future. “We both want a better Pennsylvania,” Fetterman said, echoing sentiments that reflect the need for cooperation in the coming years.

The dynamic between the two senators will certainly be a focal point in the months ahead, as they will both have to navigate a Senate that is divided, with Republicans holding a majority in the House. Fetterman, who chairs the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry, sees plenty of room for collaboration, especially on issues related to the Farm Bill, an area where both senators have expressed shared interests.

John Fetterman Pennsylvania Senate

A New Era for Pennsylvania’s Agriculture

The Pennsylvania Farm Show, which kicked off on January 6, 2025, offered a timely backdrop for Fetterman’s optimistic remarks. As part of his role on the Senate Committee, Fetterman is eager to address long-standing agricultural issues, including the overdue Farm Bill that was extended last year to avoid a government shutdown.

Fetterman emphasized his commitment to ensuring that key programs, especially the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), remain funded and protected. “I’ve always pushed back on efforts to cut SNAP,” he said, noting that the program has been vital for many Pennsylvanians, especially in rural areas.

While the incoming Republican majority in Congress will undoubtedly influence the negotiations over the five-year Farm Bill, Fetterman is adamant that SNAP funding should not be targeted. His stance underscores a consistent commitment to safeguarding the most vulnerable, something he views as crucial for Pennsylvania’s agricultural community.

Key points from Fetterman’s statements at the Farm Show:

  • Support for a bipartisan approach to agricultural policy.
  • A focus on securing SNAP funding, despite GOP opposition.
  • Advocacy for the Farm Bill’s swift passage to address urgent needs in agriculture.

A Personal Touch to Politics

Fetterman’s recent dinner meeting with McCormick and their respective wives has drawn attention not only because of its political significance but also for its personal nature. The gathering, which took place in Pittsburgh, highlights how collaboration in the Senate can extend beyond formal meetings and into real-life conversations.

Fetterman’s relationship with his wife Gisele, who grew up undocumented, was also mentioned during his remarks. The senator highlighted his belief that immigration is one of the country’s “super powers,” reflecting a more inclusive approach to governance.

In an era where political polarization is rampant, Fetterman’s willingness to engage with figures like McCormick is a breath of fresh air. His ability to move past political differences and work toward common goals speaks to the potential for positive change in Pennsylvania.

Navigating the Farm Bill and Other Priorities

With the new Republican administration in Congress, Fetterman will have to navigate the shifting priorities of the Farm Bill. While Republicans may push for different provisions, Fetterman is determined to ensure that programs like SNAP remain intact. The Pennsylvania senator sees this as not just a political battle but a moral one, emphasizing that “we can’t ever stand for cutting SNAP or going after hungry Americans.”

As the Farm Bill negotiations continue, Fetterman will also be working with the incoming Secretary of Agriculture, Brooke Rollins, who has been nominated by President-elect Donald Trump. Fetterman has expressed support for Rollins, noting her strong background despite their differing views on some issues.

Fetterman’s pragmatic approach to working with both Republicans and Democrats could serve as a model for collaboration in the years to come. His emphasis on listening to all sides, even those with whom he disagrees, is a sign that bipartisanship might still have a place in American politics.

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