Senators John Fetterman (D-PA) and Dave McCormick (R-PA) discuss their bipartisan partnership, emphasizing the need to work across the aisle on issues like AI, energy policy, and data centers. They address the threat of misinformation, foreign influence in the AI race, and the challenge of rebuilding trust in institutions, while also touching on the problem of money in politics and the rise of extreme candidates like Graham Platner.
Summarized by Podsumo
Both senators highlight a rare bipartisan coalition in Pennsylvania, with voters supporting Fetterman, McCormick, and Trump, reflecting a 'working families' coalition that includes high Latino and African-American turnout.
They express concern over misinformation about data centers, driven in part by foreign state actors (e.g., China), and draw parallels to the earlier fracking debates. Fetterman calls AI an 'incredible new opportunity' and warns against a 'China first' policy by opposing moratoriums.
Fetterman admits he was 'so wrong' about the filibuster, now defending it as crucial for minority rights. McCormick agrees, crediting it with fostering bipartisan collaboration despite its slow pace.
The senators reveal that $300 million was spent in their races to destroy reputations, highlighting the corrosive influence of money in politics. Fetterman notes that such funds could instead benefit Pennsylvania.
They discuss the rise of extreme candidates like Graham Platner, with a Nazi tattoo and anti-soldier rhetoric, as a backlash to partisan polarization—Fetterman condemns this while defending his own 93% Democratic voting record.
"Our votes are about country over party at this point. We're trying to set a good example because we have lots of disagreements, but we trust each other, we like one another and we look for ways to work together."
"If you think it's okay to give China a benefit to win the AI race, vote me out."
"We need to get money out of politics... $300 million was spent to destroy our reputations. Think what $300 million could do for Pennsylvania or for people."