Senator John Fetterman (D‑Pa.) sharply criticized his party’s approach to the ongoing government shutdown during a Sunday appearance on Fox News’ Sunday Morning Futures. He argued that Democrats’ refusal to negotiate sends the “wrong message” both to Americans and to the world. Fetterman emphasized that ending the shutdown should be the priority before tackling issues such as extending Obamacare tax credits. He reiterated his long‑standing principle: that no party, including Democrats, should shut down the government.

In a break from many in his party, Fetterman joined Senators Catherine Cortez Masto (D‑Nev.) and Angus King (I‑Maine) in supporting a Republican‑sponsored stopgap funding measure. Despite their support, the proposal failed to secure the 60 votes needed in the Senate, leaving the shutdown unresolved. Fetterman also noted that in previous budget fights, he consistently opposed shutdowns regardless of which party held power, reinforcing his position of prioritizing continuity of government operations.

As the shutdown stretches on, political pressure is mounting. Republicans label the standoff a “Schumer shutdown,” blaming Senate Democrats for blocking funding bills. Meanwhile, Democrats accuse Republicans—and former President Trump—of tying budget passage to policy demands. Fetterman’s dissent within his party underscores growing tension over strategy: does one use leverage in budget fights, or avoid shutdowns at all costs to prevent harm to public services and Americans dependent on them?