John Fetterman takes aim at his own party in tweet about ‘#TheResistance’: ‘Hold our beer’

senator john fetterman criticizes democrats for "self owns" and government shutdown threats

Senator John Fetterman, D-Pa., a prominent Democratic lawmaker, has once again criticized his own party for what he describes as a series of self-inflicted wounds and childish behavior. Following President Donald Trump’s recent address to a joint session of Congress, Fetterman took to Twitter to express his frustration with the Democrats’ handling of key moments during the speech. He accused his party of a "sad cavalcade of self owns and unhinged petulance," referencing several embarrassing incidents that have drawn criticism from both sides of the aisle. Among these incidents, Fetterman highlighted the Democrats’ failure to clap for a 13-year-old cancer survivor honored by Trump, their use of protest paddles during the speech, and the creation of a bizarre "pick your fighter" video featuring Democratic congresswomen. Fetterman jokingly warned his party, "Hold our beer: Government Shutdown!" while emphasizing his opposition to any shutdown, declaring, "Never, never, never vote for a shutdown—ever."

the touching moment that left democrats silent

During President Trump’s address, he honored 13-year-old DJ Daniel, a cancer survivor who aspires to become a police officer. Trump went so far as to offer Daniel an honorary position as a Secret Service agent, a moment that many viewed as heartfelt and unifying. However, some Democratic lawmakers notably refrained from clapping or showing support for Daniel during this segment of the speech. Fetterman, who had earlier praised the moment as "touching," expressed dismay at his party’s response. "I am asking our new Secret Service Director, Sean Curran, to officially make you an agent of the United States Secret Service," Trump told the young man. Fetterman later told Fox News Digital that he was disappointed by the Democrats’ silence, calling it a missed opportunity to show compassion and bipartisanship. The reaction, or lack thereof, from some lawmakers sparked widespread criticism, with many accusing the Democrats of prioritizing politics over people.

the "pick your fighter" video and the fallout

Another incident that drew Fetterman’s ire was the release of a viral TikTok video featuring several Democratic congresswomen, including Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, posing in fighting stances like characters from a video game. The video, posted by social media influencer Sulhee Jessica Woo, was intended to showcase Democratic unity and strength, but it backfired spectacularly. The clip, which included text reading "CHOOSE YOUR FIGHTER," was widely mocked on social media, with critics labeling it "cringe" and "childish." The White House even joined in, with its "Rapid Response 47" X account quipping, "Democrats Not Be Cringe Challenge. Level: Impossible." Fetterman, who has been vocal about his party’s missteps, singled out the video as an example of the Democrats’ tone-deafness and inability to connect with everyday Americans. The video quickly became a rallying cry for Republicans, who seized on it as evidence of Democratic dysfunction.

fetterman’s stance on government shutdowns

In addition to his criticism of the Democrats’ behavior during the State of the Union address, Fetterman also addressed the ongoing debate over a potential government shutdown. President Trump has been advocating for a continuing resolution to keep the government funded until September, allowing more time to focus on his administration’s agenda. However, passing such a resolution in the Senate would require bipartisan support, as it needs enough Democratic votes to move forward. Fetterman has been adamant in his opposition to any shutdown, calling it a "bulls—" idea and declaring, "I’m never going to be a part of any vote that shuts the government down." He reportedly told Politico, "The fact that anyone on our side would even rattle those sabers, that’s bonkers." Fetterman’s position puts him at odds with some members of his party who are willing to use the shutdown as a negotiating tool. His comments reflect his growing frustration with the partisan gridlock in Washington and his desire to focus on finding solutions rather than exacerbating divisions.

the broader implications for democrats

Fetterman’s criticisms come at a critical time for the Democratic Party, which is grappling with internal divisions and a lack of clear direction. The incidents he highlighted—ranging from the silence during Daniel’s recognition to the embarrassing "pick your fighter" video—underscore the challenges the party faces in presenting a unified and relatable image to the American people. By calling out his own party, Fetterman is attempting to send a wake-up call to Democrats, urging them to reflect on their actions and consider how they are perceived by voters. His comments also highlight the broader struggle within the Democratic Party to balance ideological purity with pragmatic governance, as well as the need to reconnect with moderate and independent voters ahead of the 2024 elections. Fetterman’s willingness to criticize his own party reflects his reputation as a blunt and unapologetic leader who is unafraid to speak his mind, even if it means ruffling feathers within his own ranks.

looking ahead: challenges for democrats

As the debate over the government shutdown intensifies, Fetterman’s stance serves as a reminder of the high stakes involved. With the deadline for a funding resolution looming, both parties are under pressure to find a solution that avoids the economic and political fallout of a shutdown. For Democrats, the challenge is twofold: not only must they navigate the complexities of negotiations with Republicans, but they must also address the internal divisions that have hindered their ability to present a cohesive and compelling message to the public. Fetterman’s criticisms, while directed at his party’s recent missteps, also offer a roadmap for how Democrats can move forward. By focusing on bipartisanship, avoiding unnecessary distractions, and prioritizing issues that resonate with everyday Americans, the party can work to regain the trust and support of voters ahead of the next election cycle.