Republicans Approach Fetterman on Party Switch

Republicans, led by President Donald Trump, are quietly approaching Senator John Fetterman of Pennsylvania to consider switching from the Democratic Party or becoming an independent who could caucus with the GOP, according to multiple high-level party officials.

The outreach comes ahead of the November 2026 midterm elections, with some Republicans calculating that Fetterman's defection could preserve their Senate majority even if they lose up to four seats. Trump has offered his full endorsement and substantial financial support, officials said. A handful of Senate Republicans have also engaged Fetterman directly, addressing his concerns about leaving the Democrats. In one private conversation, a senior GOP lawmaker suggested he become an independent, and Fetterman neither embraced nor rejected the idea, according to a Republican official familiar with the discussion.

Fetterman has publicly rejected the overtures. "I'm not changing," he told reporters in a recent interview. "I'm a Democrat and I'm staying one." He emphasized his voting record, noting that it aligns with Democrats and that he votes with them about 93 percent of the time. Fetterman has expressed strong differences...