In a political landscape often marked by partisan divides, a notable exception has emerged in the form of Senator John Fetterman of Pennsylvania. Demonstrating a willingness to prioritize national interest over party lines, Senator Fetterman has taken a stand that aligns him with Republicans on the issue of ending the government shutdown.

During a recent appearance on Fox News’ “Saturday in America” with host Kayleigh McEnany, Fetterman discussed his decision to join Republicans in voting to reopen the government. His stance is shared by only a handful of colleagues, including Senator Catherine Cortez Masto of Nevada and Independent Senator Angus King of Maine.

Fetterman’s approach to the shutdown highlights his readiness to engage in bipartisan discussions and seek solutions beyond partisan politics. His commitment to addressing the shutdown has become a defining aspect of his tenure, illustrating his growth since overcoming significant personal health challenges, including a stroke and a battle with depression.

Despite his cooperative stance on this issue, Senator Fetterman remains a steadfast Democrat, with clear ideological differences from his Republican counterparts. He holds a mere 7 percent approval rating from the conservative Heritage Action group, underscoring his liberal credentials. Nevertheless, his actions recall an era when moderate Democrats were more common, and political dialogue was more collaborative.

Fetterman’s dedication to his constituents and pragmatic approach to governance serve as a reminder of the potential for moderation and respect across political divides. While he may not align with conservatives on most issues, his conduct in this instance demonstrates a commitment to principle that transcends party loyalty.

“It’s an easy, easy choice to pick my country over the party, especially in circumstances like this,” Fetterman said on “Saturday in America.”

On Thursday, the Senate failed in a 54-46 vote to advance a Republican bill to pay certain federal workers during the shutdown, falling short of the 60 votes needed to pass the measure. Only three Democrats, including Fetterman, voted with Republicans.

Actually, only one Democrat (other than Senator Fetterman) and one independent voted with Republicans, those being Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV) and Senator Angus King (I-ME). Senator Fetterman seems to have his web-footed waterfowl arranged in a linear fashion on this issue, and is clearly willing to work with Republicans to move past the shutdown and start talking about deals; he has said so himself.

But Fetterman said he believes Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., is an “honorable guy” and that talks on healthcare will move forward when the government is reopened.

Shut our government down and America loses.

2 MILLION Pennsylvanians depend on SNAP to feed their families.

For me, it’s hungry Americans over party.

Paying our military over party.

Paying Capitol Police and federal workers over party.

I choose country over party. pic.twitter.com/JQbGkzYdw8

— U.S. Senator John Fetterman (@SenFettermanPA) October 22, 2025

This is a man who has shown gumption, principles and has frankly come a long way since he was elected. At that time, this writer, along with many people, didn’t think he’d last a term; some claimed he wouldn’t last the year. He suffered a stroke, and later fought with depression, but he seems to have hit his stride now.

We should never forget that he’s still a Democrat. He’s still going to disagree with Republicans on any number of issues and shows no inclination to cross over to the other side of the aisle. But he’s a rare thing, these days: An actual moderate Democrat, a man who is putting his constituents ahead of his party. At least where the shutdown is concerned. He’s no conservative, bearing only a 7 percent rating from Heritage Action. But he makes us hearken back to the days when someone could be a liberal and still be someone worthy of respect. More to the point, he reminds me of the days when there were still moderate Democrats.

Make no mistake: Were I a Pennsylvanian resident, I wouldn’t vote for John Fetterman. But I suspect if I had a grievance and had the chance to talk to him about it, he would listen, and take me seriously – even if we ended up disagreeing.