A staffer for Sen.-elect John Fetterman (D) is defending him after a reporter made a comment about asking him a question.
Rebecca Katz, a longtime adviser for Fetterman, appeared to take issue with a tweet posted by reporter Igor Bobic.
“Spotted in Senate basement: John Fetterman He didn’t answer when I asked if he’ll be able to wear his hoodie on Senate floor,” Bobic tweeted.
Katz replied, “Two things we need to get out of the way: 1) John Fetterman has a suit and will wear it to the Capitol.”
She added, “2) He is still recovering from a stroke and has lingering auditory processing challenges. The way Hill reporters are used to yelling questions at Senators will not work here.”
Two things we need to get out of the way:
— Rebecca Katz (@RebeccaKKatz) November 15, 2022
1) John Fetterman has a suit and will wear it to the Capitol.
2) He is still recovering from a stroke and has lingering auditory processing challenges. The way Hill reporters are used to yelling questions at Senators will not work here. https://t.co/0UCe47d9QC
Fetterman suffered from a stroke in May.
He went on to defeat Republican opponent Mehmet Oz in the Pennsylvania Senate race.
Dr. Clifford Chen of Duquesne, Pennsylvania, said in October Fetterman had no work restrictions.
Chen wrote in a note at the time Fetterman “is recovering well from his stroke and his health has continued to improve.”
According to Chen, “He spoke intelligently without cognitive deficits” and “occasionally words he will ‘miss’ which seems like he doesn’t hear the word but it is actually not processed properly.”
Concluding the note, Chen wrote, “Overall, Lt. Governor Fetterman is well and shows strong commitment to maintaining good fitness and health practices. He has no work restrictions and can work full duty in public office.”
However, his performance in the only debate with his opponent sparked questions of whether he is fit for office.
Rachel Tripp, Oz’s senior communications adviser, made headlines over the summer after taking aim at Fetterman’s health.
“If John Fetterman had ever eaten a vegetable in his life, then maybe he wouldn’t have had a major stroke and wouldn’t be in the position of having to lie about it constantly,” Trip said.
