Sen. John Fetterman (D-Pa.) warned that if people decide not to vote in November, they will have to accept the “tragedy” of former President Trump’s re-election.
In a new interview with USA TodayThe first-term senator said he is not concerned about progressives threatening to abstain in the general election because of the United States’ response to the conflict in Gaza.
“Go ahead. And then when you get Trump’s second term, you’re going to have to own up to this tragedy,” said Fetterman, who has lost some support within his own party for his unwavering support of Israel in its war, like President Biden .
Still, Fetterman said he believes voters will vote for Biden once they realize a second Trump presidency is possible and imminent.
“I trust in democracy. If they – voters – turn their backs on the stove, the fire will burn,” said Fetterman. “It’s really that kind of choice now.”
His comments came after progressive groups urged voters participating in presidential primaries in several states to vote “uncommitted” to “apply political pressure on the Biden administration to reassess its position on the war in Gaza.”
According to USA Today, more than 60,000 Pennsylvania voters chose the write-in option during the April primary.
The swing state, which went to Biden in 2020, will be closely watched in this fall’s rematch between Biden and Trump. The primaries had below-average turnout, but Fetterman said he believes voters will support Biden at the polls.
“I believe the American people will face this incredibly difficult choice” in the election, he said, “and I think they will make the right choice.”
Despite receiving criticism from those in his voting base who say his response to the war does not make him the candidate they voted for, Fetterman is unwavering in his support for Israel and his commitment to helping Biden get re-elected.
This story originally appeared on thehill.com read the full story
