Fetterman says he would leave Democratic Party if it becomes 'anti-Israel'

U.S. Senator John Fetterman (Democrat) said on Wednesday at an event hosted by The Hill and NewsNation that he would consider leaving the Democratic Party if it became the "anti-Israel party." Fetterman has emerged as one of the most prominent advocates for Israel among Senate Democrats, even as others in the party have distanced themselves from traditional support amid accusations of genocide in Gaza.

"My long-term concern has been with the Democratic Party, as I am a member of that, is that our party is going to back away and turn their back to Israel," Fetterman said. Referring to recent primary victories by candidates who oppose aid to Israel, he added: "I've described that if our party ever becomes … the anti-Israel party, you know, that's when I would leave." He called it a matter of "moral clarity."

While the senator acknowledged Republican attempts to convince him to switch sides, he said he otherwise has no interest because he disagrees with most GOP policies. "I've been very clear. I am never changing my party, except for that one condition that we just discussed," Fetterman stated.

On the same day, 103 House Democrats voted for an unsuccessful bid to halt $3.3 billion in aid to Israel, the majority of which would be for military purposes. The vote amounted to a significant rebuke of U.S. policy toward Israel, with some longtime supporters of defense assistance saying they could no longer justify sending weapons. Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, a Democrat, said she voted yes "for the message that it sends."

In April, a majority of Democratic senators voted for two attempts by independent Senator Bernie Sanders to block the sale of bombs and bulldozers to Israel. Fetterman rejected both measures.