John Fetterman is an unusual politician – but his rise from borough mayor to US senator reflects a recent trend

By: Richardson Dilworth, Drexel University, The Conversation

Outlets: The Conversation

Published: November 21, 2025

Words: 1,411

Last Updated: 3 days, 18 hours ago

By Richardson Dilworth, Drexel University

Pennsylvania Sen. John Fetterman – among the eight Democrats who voted to end the federal government shutdown – has always been a unique character and a sly self-promoter.

His political brand is that of an anti-politician. It’s reflected in his ultracasual wardrobe, his willingness – and even eagerness – to vote and express opinions across party lines, and his stated inability to socialize or glad-hand.

Even his …

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