In an unexpected twist of political allegiance, some Democrats are signaling a willingness to collaborate with former President Trump now that he’s back in the political ring. This is no small feat, given the laundry list of insults hurled his way, from being called “racist” for his immigration comments to “Islamophobic” for his actions during his presidency. The impeachment saga was almost a sport with Democrats, but now they find themselves in a position where they may have to play nice.
Senator John Fetterman from Pennsylvania appears to be leading the charge among Democrats eager to work alongside Trump. After his electoral victory—one that has clearly rattled the cages in the Democrat camp—Fetterman made a splash by signing up for Trump’s Truth Social platform. The senator has even gone as far as suggesting that the president ought to be pardoned for his legal troubles. He’s been meeting with Trump’s trusted Cabinet nominees, boldly asserting that engaging in conversations is part of his “job.” It would seem that Fetterman is keen to stand out in the Senate, especially as some centrist Democrats fade into the political sunset. Who knew bipartisanship could come with a side of Columbia Jackets and hoodies?
New York City Mayor Eric Adams has shocked the Democratic establishment by vowing to work with the Trump Administration and the incoming "border czar" on illegal immigration and the crime it has brought to his city.
Also today more crossing the aisle: Sen. Bernie Sanders says… pic.twitter.com/xYTMgkPTvo
— Ron Paul (@RonPaul) December 4, 2024
Rep. Jared Moskowitz of Florida is another Democrat who has made waves recently. Known for dabbling in bipartisan waters, he announced his membership in the DOGE Caucus—an alliance that suggests he’s ready to cozy up to the likes of Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy. Moskowitz’s willingness to blur party lines demonstrates a refreshing acknowledgment that many Americans find themselves a blend of progressive and conservative views. His plan to eliminate FEMA from the Department of Homeland Security and have the Secret Service report directly to the White House also raises eyebrows. Keeping things efficient, or possibly just keeping his voter base happy?
Then there’s New York Governor Kathy Hochul. Unlike her California counterpart, Governor Gavin Newsom, Hochul is not throwing political missiles at Trump. Instead, she’s communicated a readiness to partner with him on infrastructure improvements —a move signaling that even blue state governors can play in the sandbox with a former president they often criticize. She appears to be carrying an olive branch rather than a pitchfork, focusing on areas where both sides might see eye-to-eye.
Among the most unlikely characters to join this political tête-à-tête is Senator Elizabeth Warren, famously dubbed “Pocahontas” by Trump himself. She’s shown an interest in working with Trump on capping credit card interest rates, earning her some bizarrely unexpected points for practicality. This willingness to engage could signal a broader trend, indicating that even those who continually peddle progressive ideas can occasionally recognize the need for fiscal responsibility.
Finally, there’s Senator Bernie Sanders, who has also eased into a cooperative spirit, echoing Warren’s sentiments regarding credit card interest rates. Sanders’ surprising openness to collaborate doesn’t just stop there; he has also aligned himself with Elon Musk on scrutinizing Pentagon spending. Paradoxically, the narrative of two opposing forces joining together may end up being more fruitful than many would anticipate. Perhaps a bipartisan rounding of the campfire might not be a bad idea after all.
In this age of political hyperbole, it seems that pragmatism is making a quiet comeback, even among those who once vehemently opposed Trump. If these surprising partnerships bloom, they could shape a new era in American politics that seeks to slash through the divisive rhetoric and actually get things done, albeit while keeping everyone on their toes.