Democrat Senator John Fetterman has taken aim at progressive Michigan senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed, labeling him the "Pontiac Platner" in response to a comment made by El-Sayed about Fetterman's appearance.
Fetterman's remarks came during an appearance on CNBC, where he addressed El-Sayed's statement that he would support a primary challenge against Fetterman to "put one ogre on a pike" and send a message to the broader Democratic Party.
"I never worked out in male modeling, call me Senator Shrek, whatever," Fetterman said, poking fun at El-Sayed's comment. However, he quickly turned serious, criticizing El-Sayed's stance on issues and his potential impact on the party.
Fetterman has emerged as a vocal critic of progressive candidates, including El-Sayed, who he claims are weaker general-election candidates this November. He has also taken aim at former Maine Senate candidate Graham Platner, who dropped his challenge against Sen. Susan Collins earlier this month after facing allegations of rape.
Fetterman's comments come as he faces a primary challenge from within his own party, with some Democrats questioning his progressive credentials. However, Fetterman remains a popular figure among many Democrats, who see him as a moderate voice in the party.
It remains to be seen how El-Sayed's comments will impact his campaign, but Fetterman's response has sparked a heated debate within the party about the role of progressive ideology in the Democratic Party.
