Pennsylvania Democratic Sen. John Fetterman described himself as “a lifelong Republican” in a slip up during a fireside chat in Texas amid mounting speculation over whether he will join the GOP.

Fetterman made the comment after he was asked during an interview with CBS News correspondent Major Garrett at the Texas Tribune Festival on Saturday why he hasn’t yet become an independent.

“Because I’m a lifelong Republican,” Fetterman said. Garrett swiftly interjected by saying “Democrat” as Fetterman laughed and shook his head.

“That’s a moment right there that’s clippable, ladies and gentlemen,” Garrett said. “Go, go, go, internet, spin wildly!”

Fetterman frequently bucks his party on key votes, is a staunch supporter of Israel and has been described by ex-staffers as “Trump’s favorite Democrat.” But he has forcefully denied rumors that he is planning to switch his political affiliation to join the Republican Party.

“Yeah, I guarantee you that’s going to break through. That’ll get clipped,” Fetterman said. “I’m a lifelong Democrat, though, and that’s … the point.”

Recent reports of Fetterman’s increasingly erratic behavior and absences from important committee meetings, votes and meetings with his constituents have drawn increased scrutiny over his ability to serve in high office. Several Pennsylvania Democrats called for Fetterman’s resignation after a Wall Street Journal report described multiple instances of the senator neglecting key responsibilities in his home state.

Fetterman has been open about his struggles with mental illness after he suffered a severe stroke that affected his speech in 2022. His political calculus on a range of key issues since arriving in the Senate has both puzzled and outraged national Democrats.

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