Fresh Out of Walter Reed, CBS Asks Fetterman About Presidential Aspirations

Days following his discharge from a six-week hospital stay at Walter Reed Medical Center for severe depression and stroke, Pennsylvania Senator John Fetterman sat for an interview with CBS News. One question posed to him by host Jane Pauley was whether he had aspirations beyond the U.S. Senate given his young age of 53 in politics. Fetterman dismissed the notion of a presidential run, instead choosing to focus on being the best senator, dad, and husband for Pennsylvania.

The interview came after media outlets faced criticism for their soft coverage of Fetterman during the 2022 Pennsylvania Senate campaign, with conservatives doubting his ability to serve due to his health issues. Sunday Morning’s interview was no exception, with Pauley offering flattering comments and labeling Fetterman a rising political star and fashion icon.

Media outlets were accused of downplaying Fetterman’s struggles during his October 2022 debate appearance, where he found it challenging to speak and read from his teleprompter. He also received gentle treatment from shows like The View, where the hosts went easy on him with simple questions. Additionally, his wife, Gisele, called for ‘consequences’ for an NBC News reporter who questioned his stroke recovery.