While Fetterman, who suffered a stroke during his 2022 Senate campaign, shut down questions about his mental fitness amid the relentless reports, it's not the first time a Democrat has been targeted after falling out of line with the party.

The Alabama Republican argued their silence is out of fear of the party’s progressive base, discomfort over his outspoken support for Israel

A trio of Republican senators came to the defense of their Democratic colleague John Fetterman on Friday, accusing the media of a smear campaign. Why it matters: It's unusual to see this level of public defense for a member of the opposing party.