Lt. Gov. John Fetterman’s health is important to consider in this election, especially since this seat could determine the majority in the U.S. Senate. Why would someone continue to run for an office where the heavy workload is not forgiving to recovery from a stroke?
The only reason I can come up with is that Fetterman hopes to win the election, be sworn in and then resign to focus on his health. By doing this, he’ll ensure that the seat remains Democrat because the governor would have to appoint a Democrat to replace him. If this is his plan, it is selfish and disingenuous. The people are voting for the candidate, not a possible replacement.
In addition, this path of action may have legal ramifications. When you run for office and/or are sworn into office, you are asked to certify that you able to fully perform the duties of the office at the time you make that oath.
If this is Fetterman’s plan, it shows a dangerous political trend: blind loyalty to a political party instead of loyalty to constituents and the Constitution. George Washington wrote that such devotion to political parties could lead to the death of this republic. If only he knew how close his prediction is coming!
Rob Gresser
North Fayette