Recently, three top communication staffers in Pennsylvania Senator John Fetterman’s office left for other left-leaning offices within a span of a month. This news comes as Fetterman has been making headlines for his positions on Israel and immigration, which have set him apart from his Democratic colleagues. Former Director of Communications Joe Calvello joined Chicago Democrat Mayor Brandon Johnson’s office as Chief Strategy Officer, expressing his honor and privilege to serve the people of Chicago. Deputy Communication Director Nicholas Gavio announced his move to the Working Families Party as Mid-Atlantic Communications Director, bringing with him experience from Fetterman’s 2022 campaign and Senator Bernie Sanders’ office.
The Working Families Party is a progressive minor political party with platforms that include raising the minimum wage, increasing taxes on the rich, and advocating for environmental and educational reform. Notable Democratic politicians associated with the party in the past include Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. Fetterman’s Press and Digital Aide Emma Mustion also revealed her departure from his office, transitioning to Pennsylvania Senator Bob Casey’s campaign office as a press secretary. These departures highlight a shift in communication staffing within Fetterman’s office and suggest a change in direction for the senator.
Fetterman’s recent statements and actions have garnered attention, such as his disavowal of the “progressive” label and criticism of Vice President Kamala Harris for her views on Israel. Fetterman has asserted that Israel has the right to defend itself against Hamas, emphasizing his support for the country in the aftermath of the Oct. 7 massacre. This stance has set him apart as one of Israel’s staunchest allies in the Senate, distancing himself from other Democratic lawmakers. The departure of communication staffers from his office may be influenced by these differing perspectives and priorities.
A screenshot of an office-wide email shared by Calvello in October highlighted the office’s policies on sharing social media posts that aligned with Fetterman’s positions. The email emphasized the need for staff to work together as a team, particularly following the breakout of conflict in Israel and Gaza. Fetterman faced criticism for his pro-Israel stance but defended his position in an interview with CNN’s Jake Tapper, stating that standing with Israel in the situation should not be controversial. These events underscore the ongoing discussions and decisions within Fetterman’s office regarding messaging and alignment with the senator’s views.
As Fetterman continues to navigate his political career and make public statements on various issues, including Israel and immigration, the staffing changes within his office reflect shifting priorities and perspectives. The departures of key communication staffers to other left-leaning offices indicate a potential realignment in messaging and strategy for Fetterman and his team. This evolution in staffing and communication approaches underscores the complexities and challenges of political representation and decision-making, particularly in a changing political landscape where divergent views are increasingly visible and subject to scrutiny.
