The Senate race in Pennsylvania between John Fetterman and Dr. Mehmet Oz is of national importance. Not only will it help decide majority party control in the upper chamber, but it also brings to light the important issue of candidate health. It’s easy for party faithfuls to scrutinize opponents when it comes to physical and mental abilities. But asking that the same critical eye be used for their allies is seemingly too much.
In May, Fetterman had a stroke. While this may just be political fodder for some, it’s no laughing matter. A stroke is a serious medical episode, and there should be no ill will against Fetterman regardless of his leftist policies. Considering how things have unfolded since his stroke, however, voters of all stripes are right to ask if Fetterman is up for the task of not just candidate but U.S. senator.
Last week, the Washington Post editorial board questioned Fetterman’s abilities. The editorial listed some growing concerns: “Since returning to the campaign trail, Mr. Fetterman has been halting in his performances. He stammers, appears confused and keeps his remarks short. He has held no news conferences. Mr. Fetterman acknowledges his difficulties with auditory processing, which make it hard for him to respond quickly to what he’s hearing.”
It hardly needs to be said that the Washington Post is not a right-leaning outlet. Included in the piece was a call for more than one debate between Fetterman and his opponent. It’s only fair to the voters. So far, Fetterman has agreed only to one debate, though a firm date has not been set.
But Fetterman isn’t alone. The questions about his physical and mental health should be replicated for all candidates and seated politicians.
Former President Donald Trump’s health has been scrutinized numerous times. Voters, mostly on the left side of the aisle, have wondered at his capacity for correct behavior and general physical stamina considering his age and weight. President Joe Biden’s health has also been called into question. He often seems confused and has stumbled more than once in both word and form. Again, those worries are usually only brought up by those opposite him politically. Partisan talking points are quick to highlight areas of physical and mental weakness in political adversaries. It is equally important to do the same for allies.
Fetterman’s overall health is a topic worth discussing. At the same time, so is the health of someone like Herschel Walker, a candidate for Senate from Georgia. Walker, a former NFL running back, has been open about his mental health struggles. He has struggled with and addressed his diagnosis of dissociative identity disorder. Yet, questions remain, as they would for anyone who has been violent or wildly unpredictable in the past. Whether these troubles are recent or decades in the making, none of them should be used as a political football by either side. They should be discussed, addressed, and considered when voters head to the polls.
Talking about the physical and mental health of a candidate is not an endorsement of their opponent. The policy positions of a candidate are of extreme importance. But health should be a factor, and candidates who present themselves to the public as an electoral choice should be prepared to answer and address any concerns.
It’s an easy task to criticize opponents. The real work involves applying the same questions to those we support.
Kimberly Ross (@SouthernKeeks) is a contributor to the Washington Examiner’s Beltway Confidential blog and a columnist at Arc Digital.
