Bulwark Takes: "Cover Up!? The Truth About Fetterman’s Health"
Release Date: May 5, 2025
Host: Lauren Egan
Guest: Ben Terrace, New York Magazine
Introduction
In the episode titled "Cover Up!? The Truth About Fetterman’s Health," Lauren Egan engages in a comprehensive discussion with Ben Terrace, the author of a revealing piece on Senator John Fetterman's mental and physical health struggles. The conversation delves deep into the complexities surrounding Fetterman's condition, the internal concerns within his team, and the broader political implications.
Senator Fetterman's Health Struggles
Lauren Egan opens the dialogue by outlining Senator John Fetterman's well-documented health battles, including his 2022 stroke during his Senate campaign and subsequent admission to Walter Reed for clinical depression shortly after assuming office. She highlights the initial positive reception of Fetterman's openness about his mental health, noting its potential role in destigmatizing such issues within politics.
Key Quote:
"It's kind of a game changer in terms of destigmatizing some of these issues."
— Lauren Egan [00:36]
Ben Terrace’s Investigation and the Chief of Staff’s Letter
Ben Terrace elaborates on the heart of his article, focusing on a critical letter written by Fetterman's former chief of staff, Adam Jenelson, addressed to Fetterman's doctor at Walter Reed. Jenelson's 1,600-word letter, titled "Concerns," detailed alarming observations about Fetterman's adherence to his recovery plan and highlighted behaviors signaling a potential relapse.
Key Points:
- Minor Concerns: Jenelson noted Fetterman wasn't maintaining his physical health regimen, such as drinking enough water or exercising regularly.
- Serious Red Flags: More troubling signs included repetitive and paranoid behavior, reckless driving, and securing a firearm in a biometric safe—actions Jenelson identified as warning signs warranting medical attention.
Key Quote:
“It's a red flag, so I'm alerting you to it.”
— Adam Jenelson's Letter (Summarized by Ben Terrace) [03:26]
Motivations Behind Coming Forward
Egan probes into why Jenelson chose to publicly discuss his concerns, emphasizing the rarity and bravery of a former chief of staff speaking out. Terrace explains that political loyalty in Washington often trumps personal concerns, suggesting that Jenelson’s decision underscores the severity of Fetterman's condition.
Key Quote:
“I think it's a brave thing to do. I think he probably risks career repercussions for it.”
— Ben Terrace [03:49]
Terrace further connects Jenelson's warnings to subsequent events, such as Fetterman's near-fatal car crash, illustrating the tangible dangers of ignoring these red flags.
Key Quote:
“And so that kind of proves the point here, which is that there could be a dangerous situation that arises if we're not careful.”
— Ben Terrace [05:40]
Political Implications and Party Concerns
The discussion shifts to the internal dynamics within the Democratic Party regarding Fetterman's health. Terrace addresses allegations from some staffers that Fetterman's condition might pose a risk to the party's cohesion and electoral prospects. He counters claims that these concerns are politically motivated, asserting that genuine worry for Fetterman's well-being is at the heart of these revelations.
Key Quote:
“I think these are people who truly believe what they believe. They truly are worried about him...”
— Ben Terrace [05:55]
He also reflects on the broader political climate, particularly referencing the Biden administration's challenges, suggesting that rising concerns about leadership may embolden staffers to be more vocal about issues like Fetterman's health.
Key Quote:
“Biden was a big wake up call... people who are talking about it now, they're kind of playing defense now as opposed to sounding the alarm in real time when it matters.”
— Ben Terrace [07:43]
Personal Interactions and Fetterman's Behavior
Egan inquires about Terrace's personal interaction with Fetterman during his research. Terrace describes an initial rapport built on previous positive experiences but notes a significant shift when the conversation turned to Fetterman's mental health. Fetterman reportedly became defensive and appeared blindsided by the questioning, denying any ongoing issues and attributing concerns to political motivations.
Key Quote:
“He was pretty unhappy, let's say, about the line of questioning... he feels like he's blindsided a little bit.”
— Ben Terrace [09:43]
Perspectives from Other Senators
Terrace expands on insights gathered from other senators, including Democratic Senator Peter Welch and Republican Senator Katie Britt. These interactions paint a nuanced picture of Fetterman as a dedicated yet somewhat isolated figure within the Senate. His unconventional approach, such as voting from the Senate doorway while wearing hoodies and shorts, contributes to his unique and sometimes solitary presence.
Key Quote:
“He is, for the most part, a pretty isolated individual in the Senate.”
— Ben Terrace [11:54]
Additionally, Terrace touches upon Fetterman's strong policy stances, particularly regarding Israel and Palestine, suggesting that his outspoken positions may exacerbate perceptions of his instability.
Key Quote:
“From a policy standpoint, these people just disagree with that, I'm sure. But also from a kind of a human standpoint, there's a question of why is he talking like this to this person?”
— Ben Terrace [14:18]
Conclusion
The episode concludes with Egan commending Terrace for his in-depth and challenging piece, acknowledging the significant effort required to navigate such sensitive topics. The conversation underscores the intricate interplay between personal health crises and political ramifications, leaving listeners with a thorough understanding of the multifaceted issues surrounding Senator John Fetterman.
Closing Remark:
“Well, Ben, it's such a good piece. I know something like this takes an enormous amount of work. So thank you for writing it and thanks for coming on here to chat with us about it.”
— Lauren Egan [16:19]
This episode of Bulwark Takes offers a meticulous exploration of Senator Fetterman's health challenges, the internal alerts from his team, and the potential implications for both his personal career and the Democratic Party at large. Through insightful dialogue and compelling evidence, Lauren Egan and Ben Terrace shed light on a story that intertwines personal well-being with the high-stakes realm of political leadership.