Sen. John Fetterman, D-Pa., said he appeared to be the only Democrat to shake hands with President Donald Trump during Tuesday’s State of the Union address and argued that his party’s conduct during the event would not help its political standing.
“I do believe that that’s true,” Fetterman said Wednesday on “America’s Newsroom” when asked about apparently being the lone Democratic handshake.
“I shook his hand, of course. He walked in, and I'm always going to do that, for sure,” he added.
Trump's Sovereign Wealth Fund: What Could It Mean For Your Money?
The State of the Union address featured several tense moments between President Trump and Democratic lawmakers. A number of Democrats skipped the event entirely, leaving visible empty seats on their side of the aisle.
Others attended but wore anti-ICE and “Release the Files” pins in protest.
During the speech, Trump criticized Democrats at various points, while some Democratic lawmakers shouted back.
FREE Gun Law Map: Laws Don't Pause During Social Unrest
The exchanges highlighted the partisan divide in the chamber.
Rep. Al Green, D-Texas, was ejected from the address for the second year in a row after holding a sign that read “BLACK PEOPLE AREN’T APES!”
Fetterman described the conduct of some members of his party as “disappointing” and said he was troubled by how many colleagues chose not to attend.
“I think, show up. You don't have to clap for everything. You don't have to agree with anything,” Fetterman said.
He also addressed the demonstrations and interruptions during the speech.
“It’s the constant kinds of yelling and screaming and holding up signs and for doing all these things. I don't care if it's a Republican or Democrat. It's a president. Just don't do that. Respect the office,” he said.
Some Democrats opted to attend an alternative event known as the “State of the Swamp,” which was intended as a response to the State of the Union.
Actor Robert De Niro attended the event.
The gathering also featured members of the Portland Frog Brigade dressed in inflatable frog costumes.
Fetterman said such efforts are unlikely to resonate with voters.
“I don't believe, as a Democrat, dancing frogs really moves the ball for us as a party either,” he said.
The senator’s remarks came one day after the address, as discussion continued about the behavior of lawmakers and the broader political impact of the speech. The State of the Union marked another chapter in the ongoing partisan tensions in Washington, with visible protests, boycotts, and public criticism from both sides of the aisle.
The opinions expressed by contributors and/or content partners are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Objectivist. Contact us for guidelines on submitting your own commentary.
Share your opinion
COMMENT POLICY: We have no tolerance for comments containing violence, racism, vulgarity, hard-core profanity, all caps, or discourteous behavior. Thank you for partnering with us to maintain a courteous and useful public environment!