Senator John Fetterman, a Democrat from Pennsylvania, has announced his opposition to the confirmation of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and former Representative Tulsi Gabbard for positions in President Donald Trump’s cabinet. Fetterman’s decision comes after he met with the nominees and observed their confirmation hearings, ultimately deciding that he could not support their appointments.
In a post on social media platform X, Fetterman stated, "I have met with most of the cabinet nominees and have carefully watched their confirmation hearings. After considering what’s at stake, I have voted against moving forward to the confirmation of Ms. Gabbard and Mr. Kennedy, and will be voting NO on their confirmations." Kennedy has been nominated to serve as the Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services, while Gabbard has been tapped for the role of Director of National Intelligence.
Fetterman’s stance aligns with the broader Democratic opposition to the nominees, reflecting concerns over their qualifications and the implications of their potential appointments. Despite his opposition to Kennedy and Gabbard, Fetterman has previously supported some of Trump’s nominees, indicating a nuanced approach to his voting decisions.
The announcement has sparked reactions from various quarters. Nicole Shanahan, Kennedy’s former running mate, criticized Fetterman for his appearance and questioned his ability to make sound decisions, labeling him a "lazy slob." Shanahan’s comments reflect the heightened tensions surrounding the nominations and the political landscape as a whole.
Kennedy, who initially sought the Democratic presidential nomination in 2023 before switching to an independent bid, later endorsed Trump after dropping out of the race in 2024. Gabbard, who served in Congress as a Democrat from 2013 to 2021, has also shifted her political allegiance, endorsing Trump and joining the Republican Party after leaving the Democrats.
Fetterman’s opposition to the nominees is part of a larger trend among Senate Democrats, who are increasingly vocal about their concerns regarding Trump’s cabinet choices. On the same day as Fetterman’s announcement, the Senate confirmed Russell Vought, Trump’s nominee for the Office of Management and Budget, despite unanimous Democratic opposition.
As the political climate continues to evolve, Fetterman’s actions highlight the ongoing debates over leadership and policy direction within the current administration, as well as the strategies employed by lawmakers in navigating these contentious confirmations.