In an unprecedented move, Democratic Senator John Fetterman of Pennsylvania is reportedly preparing to meet with President-elect Donald Trump at his Mar-a-Lago residence.
This development follows Fetterman's recent adoption of more moderate stances on issues such as immigration, a departure from the traditional Democratic viewpoint.
As reported by The Post Millennial, Fetterman confirmed his plans in an interview with CBS News, stating, "That is the plan. Yes, we are going to have a conversation." The senator's willingness to engage with the incoming president is indicative of his support for the Laken Riley Act, a GOP-backed legislation that was opposed by 159 Democrats in the House.
Fetterman justified his decision, saying, "I think that one, he's the president, or he will be officially. And I think it's pretty reasonable that if the president would like to have a conversation or invite someone to have a conversation to have it. And no one is my gatekeeper."
Trump's outreach to unexpected individuals, such as Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos and Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg, has been a notable aspect of his transition period. Both tech moguls have visited Mar-a-Lago since Trump's election victory.
Fetterman, in his conversation with CBS News, emphasized his commitment to his constituents, stating, "I've been very clear that I have ongoing conversations with people that are going to have an impact on Pennsylvania and for the nation. And I am a senator for Pennsylvania, not just for Democrats. I am a senator for everyone in Pennsylvania."
The Laken Riley Act, which Fetterman co-sponsored, seeks to empower ICE to detain illegal immigrants who commit crimes such as theft. The legislation is named after Georgia nursing student Laken Riley, who was murdered by Jose Ibarra, a man previously charged with theft.
"We absolutely need to have a secure border, and I have always also been incredibly supportive and protective for Dreamers," Fetterman told reporters. NBC News anticipates the Laken Riley Act will pass ahead of the official vote.
The legislation has garnered support from other Democrats, including Georgia Senator Jon Ossoff and Michigan Senator Gary Peters, who both plan to vote for the bill. With overwhelming GOP support, the bill requires 60 votes to pass the Senate and avoid a filibuster. This bipartisan support underscores the growing recognition of the need for secure borders and effective immigration policies.
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