Pennsylvania Senator John Fetterman has addressed the right-wing conspiracy theories that he had been replaced by a "body double" after he was hospitalized for depression. The video address, posted to the freshman Democratic lawmaker's Twitter account Tuesday, mocked the "fringy fringies" who started the rumor after a cropped photo of him smiling circulated on social media last month.
In the 30-second clip accompanied by Bill Withers' song "Just the Two Of Us," Fetterman poked fun at the theories by posing in a separate outfit toward the end of the video. The photo that made some conspiracy theorists question if his health after his stroke was taken in May 2022 turned out to be an image from May 2012 when he was released from hospital following a stroke.
This comes as Sen. John Fetterman (D-PA) took aim at those responsible for spreading baseless claims regarding his supposed replacement with a body double. These rumors surfaced due to perceived differences between photographs taken before and after suffering a stroke last May.
The senator returned to work on Monday after taking two months off to receive treatment for depression, which followed his previous medical issues. In addressing these unfounded speculations head-on and with humor, Fetterman demonstrated resilience while also shedding light on mental health struggles faced by many individuals across America.
"I want everyone to know that I'm doing well and have received excellent care during my time away," said Sen. Fetterman in an official statement upon returning to Congress this week.
Fellow lawmakers expressed their support for Sen. Fetterman's return, emphasizing their respect and admiration for how he handled himself throughout this ordeal:
"We're glad you're back, John," said Senate Majority Leader Charles Schumer (D-NY). "Your strength in overcoming adversity serves as an inspiration not only within our caucus but across the nation."
Pennsylvania Governor Tom Wolf also shared his thoughts on Fetterman's resilience, stating, "John has shown strength and courage in facing these challenges head-on. I'm glad to see him back in action representing Pennsylvania in Washington."
As this story continues to develop, Sen. Fetterman remains focused on returning to work and advocating for his constituents while maintaining a sense of humor about the conspiracy theories that have followed him during his recovery process.