On Sunday, August 2nd, 2026, Senator Bernie Sanders described Senator John Fetterman as "way out of touch" with Americans during an appearance on "Meet the Press." Sanders cited a July Quinnipiac University poll indicating that only 19% of Pennsylvania Democrats approve of Fetterman's job performance, with 69% disapproving.

Sanders criticized Fetterman’s positions on Israel and other issues, stating, "Fetterman does his thing, and I think, on Israel, and many other issues, is way out of touch with the people of America."

The exchange follows Fetterman accusing Sanders of showing no regret over endorsing Graham Platner, a former Maine Senate nominee who withdrew amid multiple controversies. Fetterman said, "After you just criticized the Maine race apart, you are in Michigan replicating it," referring to Sanders' support of progressive Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed.

Fetterman also expressed frustration with Sanders, stating, "I would be frustrated with someone like Bernie Sanders." He accused Sanders of promoting Platner before the candidate withdrew from the Maine Senate race.

Sanders responded by highlighting Fetterman’s low approval ratings among Pennsylvania Democrats, implying a disconnect between Fetterman and voters.

Sources