Freudian Slip? John Fetterman Tells Live Audience ‘I’m a Lifelong Republican’ Before Sheepishly Backpedaling

For months, Senator John Fetterman (D-PA) has faced questions about whether he is planning to become a Republican. That speculation is sure to ratchet up following an accidental slip the senator made during a live interview in Texas on Saturday.

Appearing at the Texas Tribune festival alongside CBS News chief Washington correspondent Major Garrett, Fetterman fielded a question from an audience member about his party affiliation.

“Why not become an independent?” Fetterman was asked.

“Because I’m a lifelong Republican,” the senator replied.

Garrett promptly called attention to the slip.

“Democrat,” he said.

The audience laughed, and Fetterman shook his head and giggled at his gaffe.

“That’s a moment right there!” Garrett said. “That’s clippable, ladies and gentlemen! Circulate!”

Fetterman acknowledged the likely viral nature of his comment.

“I guarantee you, that’s gonna break through,” Fetterman said sheepishly. “That’ll get clipped.”

Finally the senator amended his remark.

“I’m a lifelong Democrat,” Fetterman said.

The speculation about Fetterman reached a fevered pitch in early September after he made a videotaped appearance at the Republican midterm convention. As part of his taped comments, Fetterman vowed to “work with President [Donald] Trump.” He’s also been subjected to intense criticism from ex-staffers — whose allegations were the subject of a recent bombshell report from the Wall Street Journal. The Journal reported — among other things — that Fetterman blew off a meeting with paralyzed veterans in favor of an interview on Fox News.

Watch above, via CSPAN Networks.

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