Senator John Fetterman of Pennsylvania appeared in a video at President Trump’s midterm convention in Dallas, introducing himself as a “common-sense Democrat” who rejects socialism. Standing before a steel mill in Pennsylvania, he introduced Republican Senator David Mc Cormick and pledged to defend the steel way of life alongside Trump. The appearance, just weeks before crucial midterm elections, bolstered Republicans’ argument that Democrats are extremists.

It also undercut Democrats’ focus on Trump’s sagging approval ratings. Fetterman, who has increasingly broken with his party, has denied plans to switch parties but has formed a joint fundraising committee with Mc Cormick and criticized progressive voices. A recent poll shows 69% of Pennsylvania Democratic voters view him negatively, while most Republicans now see him positively.

Former staff have expressed anger over his shift, with some threatening to release private communications.