BOSTON, MA — Senators John Fetterman (D-PA) and David McCormick (R-PA) demonstrated a commitment to bipartisanship in a wide-ranging discussion at The Senate Project event held Monday at the Edward M. Kennedy Institute for the United States Senate. The dialogue, taking place in the Institute’s replica of the U.S. Senate Chamber, tackled pressing national and international concerns, underscoring the value of cooperation across party lines.
Moderated by Shannon Bream of FOX News, the 35-minute conversation covered topics including antisemitism, border security, sanctions on Russia, and provisions affecting the U.S. steel industry. The event marked the sixth installment of The Senate Project, a series aimed at encouraging civil discourse and collaborative problem-solving between Democratic and Republican lawmakers.
Tackling Difficult Issues Together
Senators Fetterman and McCormick addressed recent instances of antisemitism, including attacks on Jewish students on U.S. college campuses. Fetterman criticized such acts, calling them “not free speech” and a clear form of assault on the Jewish community. McCormick echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the responsibility of universities to combat anti-Jewish attitudes.
Both senators also focused on U.S. foreign policy concerns, including continued sanctions on Russia for its aggression in Ukraine. “Russia has always been the Evil Empire,” Fetterman remarked, reaffirming his support for nations like Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan in their efforts to uphold democracy. McCormick highlighted a shared resolve to ensure strong deterrence through U.S. measures.
On border security, both lawmakers endorsed stricter controls to address growing challenges. They also discussed the U.S. steel industry’s future, particularly provisions from Nippon Steel’s recent acquisition of U.S. Steel, which aligned with bipartisan goals to protect Pennsylvania’s critical manufacturing base.
A Platform for Civil Discourse
Fetterman used the event to respond to media scrutiny regarding his fitness for office, linking the criticism to his bipartisan stances on contentious issues like government shutdowns and border policies. “I’ll take the beating, because that’s what defines leadership,” he said, showcasing his dedication to serving constituents of Pennsylvania.
McCormick praised the ability of both senators to represent Pennsylvania despite differing ideologies. “The same people who elected me elected him for the most part,” McCormick noted, adding that their priorities frequently overlap.
Advancing the Senate Project’s Mission
The Senate Project, a partnership between the Edward M. Kennedy Institute and the Orrin G. Hatch Foundation, has become a hallmark event for fostering bipartisan dialogue. Institute Chairman Bruce Percelay and Hatch Foundation Executive Director Matt Sandgren both commended Fetterman and McCormick for their candid, respectful exchange.
“This event proves that serious, respectful debate remains possible in American politics,” Sandgren said, reflecting the shared vision of Edward Kennedy and Orrin Hatch to advance cooperation within the Senate.
A Model for Future Collaboration
Fetterman and McCormick’s discussion highlighted their shared commitment to tackling significant challenges facing both their home state of Pennsylvania and the nation at large. From addressing antisemitism to strengthening domestic industries and ensuring national security, the senators underscored the importance of prioritizing solutions over division.
Their dialogue serves as a reminder of the power of bipartisan cooperation, offering a hopeful example of how lawmakers from opposing parties can find common ground for the greater good.
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