Challenges in the Life of John Fetterman in a Detailed Timeline

Resilience and perseverance in the journey of John Fetterman. A timeline of obstacles and growth.

John Fetterman is an American politician currently serving as a U.S. Senator for Pennsylvania since 2023. A Democrat, he previously served as the mayor of Braddock, Pennsylvania, from 2006 to 2019, and as the Lieutenant Governor of Pennsylvania from 2019 to 2023. His political career has primarily been focused on representing the state of Pennsylvania in various capacities.

Sections (6)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals

2009: Re-election Campaign for Mayor of Braddock

In 2009, during his campaign for re-election as mayor of Braddock, John Fetterman faced criticism from Jayme Cox. Fetterman was also criticized for releasing non-public records that showed Cox was arrested in 2004. Despite the criticism, Fetterman defeated Cox in the primary and was unopposed in the general election.

2009: Contentious Relationship with Town Council

In 2009, during his tenure as mayor, John Fetterman had a contentious relationship with the Braddock town council. Members attempted to have him removed from a meeting and cited for an occupancy permit violation.

January 2013: Shotgun Incident with Jogger

In January 2013, John Fetterman detained an unarmed Black jogger, Chris Miyares, with a shotgun in North Braddock after mistaking the sound of bottle rockets for gunfire. Fetterman denies pointing the gun at Miyares.

2016: U.S. Senate Run

In 2016, John Fetterman ran for the U.S. Senate but finished third in the Democratic primary.

2018: Criticism of Fetterman's Mayoral Tenure

In 2018, Tony Buba, a Braddock-based filmmaker, criticized John Fetterman's mayoral tenure, pointing out that Braddock's population had stagnated and the average income remained low despite Fetterman's efforts.

January 2019: Start of Light Work Schedule

Starting in January 2019 after his inauguration as Lieutenant Governor, John Fetterman maintained a light work schedule often being absent from official state business.

2020: Limited Attendance in Senate Sessions

In 2020, John Fetterman attended only half of the Senate's sessions while serving as lieutenant governor.

2021: Limited Attendance in Senate Sessions

In 2021, John Fetterman attended only a third of the Senate's sessions while serving as lieutenant governor.

2021: Superior Motors Closes

In 2021, Superior Motors restaurant closed in Braddock amid the COVID-19 pandemic. The restaurant was established by John Fetterman and chef Kevin Sousa.

May 2022: Review Finds Light Work Schedule

An Associated Press review through May 2022, found that John Fetterman's official schedule was blank for one-third of workdays during his tenure as lieutenant governor, and he was often absent from presiding over the Pennsylvania State Senate.

February 8, 2023: Fetterman hospitalized after feeling lightheaded

On February 8, 2023, John Fetterman was hospitalized overnight after experiencing lightheadedness during a U.S. Senate retreat. His office indicated he was in good spirits, and his hospitalization was unrelated to his previous stroke.

February 10, 2023: Fetterman Hospitalized for Syncope

On February 10, 2023, John Fetterman was hospitalized for two days due to syncope, which is lightheadedness.

February 16, 2023: Fetterman checks into Walter Reed for clinical depression

On February 16, 2023, John Fetterman checked himself into Walter Reed Hospital for treatment of clinical depression. An aide mentioned that he would likely remain hospitalized for less than two months.

May 2024: Concerns raised over Fetterman's mental health

In May 2024, Fetterman's chief of staff, Adam Jentleson, expressed concern over Fetterman's mental health and erratic behavior in a letter to Walter Reed Hospital director David Williamson. Jentleson cited "conspiratorial thinking", "megalomania", rambling monologues, reckless driving, obvious lies, avoidance of medical checkups, and pushing away support as causes for concern.

June 9, 2024: Fetterman Involved in Car Crash

On June 9, 2024, John Fetterman and his wife were involved in a two-car crash in Maryland. Both were hospitalized and released quickly. Fetterman was found at fault for rear-ending another vehicle while speeding.