DEVELOPING STORY
Sen. John Fetterman (D-PA), elected to office in November amid concerns regarding his physical and mental fitness following a stroke last May, admitted himself to a mental health facility on Feb 8. On Monday, his staff attempted to assure constituents that the senator is on the path to recovery.
The senator’s office released the following statement:
“We don’t have a lot to update folks with since there’s no real news to report except that John is doing well, working with the wonderful doctors, and remains on a path to recovery. He is visiting with staff and family daily, and his staff are keeping him updated on Senate business and news.”
The statement added: “Our team is moving full speed ahead and working tirelessly for the people of Pennsylvania. Just last week, we opened a new office in Erie and will be opening several more offices in the coming weeks.”
Some have tried to present Fetterman’s decision to admit himself to a mental health facility as heroic. His office has attempted to spin the potentially politically devastating news into a positive way to support mental health.
Investigative journalist Victoria Brownworth wrote: “Wow. This is something. John Fetterman is using his email list to raise money for mental health orgs nationally and in Pennsylvania. He’s not just raising awareness through his transparency over his own health crisis, he’s also making it possible for others to get treatment.”
Others have expressed grave concerns regarding Fetterman’s ability to effectively manage the stress and responsibilities associated with serving in one of the highest offices in the land.
Fetterman’s staff acknowledged that the senator’s recovery will be a “weeks-long process” and stated that “while we will be sure to keep folks updated as it progresses, this is all there is to give by way of an update.”
After John sought medical care, his wife Gisele left the country with their children.
Fetterman is currently receiving in-patient treatment for clinical depression at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center.
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