Pennsylvania Senators John Fetterman and Dave McCormick are set to host their first joint public event in Pittsburgh this Saturday, but not everyone is happy about it.
The event is tied to McCormick’s new book, and some activists and Democrats are voicing their frustration.
A protest organized by Mondays Without McCormick Pittsburgh and Indivisible Pittsburgh is planned for the same day.
Protesters are urging both senators to hold a town hall and listen to their constituents’ concerns.
Former Rep. Conor Lamb, who ran against Fetterman in the 2022 Democratic primary, criticized Fetterman for his recent actions.
In an interview with The Philadelphia Inquirer, Lamb questioned Fetterman’s leadership and presence during Trump’s second term.
“He should be listening to people, not attending McCormick’s book signing,” Lamb said.
McCormick regularly shares updates from his meetings with constituents on social media, but it’s been over two months since Fetterman held a public event in Pennsylvania.
The planned protest reflects growing frustration with Fetterman’s absence from town halls, which have become flashpoints across the country.
Fetterman’s bipartisan actions have also stirred tension within his party.
He was the only Democratic senator to meet with Trump at Mar-a-Lago before the inauguration and has supported conservative-backed policies, including the Laken Riley Act.
While McCormick has praised Fetterman’s bipartisan approach, some Democrats are unhappy with him distancing himself from party lines.
Lamb accused Fetterman of prioritizing political attention over results. “We get it. He’s not happy with Democrats, but his job is to deliver for the people, not criticize his party,” Lamb said.
The book tour event will feature both senators and their wives, Gisele Barreto Fetterman and Dina Powell McCormick.
Tickets cost $32, which includes a copy of the $29.99 book “Who Believed In You?” about mentorship from successful leaders.
The original event was scheduled at City Winery, but after word of the protest spread, the location was changed to an undisclosed venue. Protesters have vowed to gather in Pittsburgh’s Strip District regardless.
A Facebook post promoting the protest lists several grievances, including opposition to dismantling the Department of Education, cuts to SNAP and NIH funding, and threats to democracy.
The protest flyer includes a “missing” poster, echoing Democratic efforts in Florida to pressure Republican leaders to hold town halls.
Both parties have faced increasing pressure from constituents over issues like Trump’s executive orders and cuts to Medicare and Social Security.
Despite past political rivalry, McCormick and Fetterman have shown signs of building a working relationship.
They attended Super Bowl LIX together and shared a meal with their wives earlier this year. McCormick recently called Fetterman a “voice of reason” on border security and support for Israel.
“I trust him. He’s authentic and will be a good partner,” McCormick said on Donald Trump Jr.’s podcast.
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