Scoop: Fetterman's chief of staff resigns

Holly Otterbein

This is John Fetterman — Sen. John Fetterman (D-Pa.) at the Senate Subway in Washington, D.C., last month. Photo: Heather Diehl/Getty Images

Sen. John Fetterman's chief of staff resigned Wednesday, a source familiar with the move told Axios.

Why it matters: The Pennsylvania Democrat has had a serious staff retention problem as he's faced scrutiny over his health struggles and changing political brand.

Driving the news: Cabelle St. John has served on Fetterman's team since he first came to Washington about three-and-a-half years ago. She became his chief of staff in 2025.

Her official last day will be in the coming weeks.
Fetterman, who was once a darling of the progressive movement, has seen major turnover as ex-aides have grown frustrated with his steadfast support for Israel and warmer approach toward President Trump.
Former staff have also complained about working with him on an interpersonal level.

The other side: Fetterman initially did not respond to a request for comment.

After the story published, he downplayed this staff turnover in a text to Axios.
"So much for the turnover issue. Clicks!" he wrote, posting an image that showed other offices with purportedly higher turnover.

Editor's note: This article has been updated to add Fetterman's response.

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Scoop: Fetterman's chief of staff resigns

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