Sen. McCormick: The Republican Party is the home of American workers



On Wednesday, the first night of the Republican Midterm Convention, Sen. Dave McCormick (R-Pa.) gave a rousing speech touting Pennsylvania’s first steel mill in decades, small business growth for women, and working-class heroes. The message was clear: The Republican Party is now the home of the American worker, not just in Pennsylvania, but all across the nation.

After receiving a warm welcome to the stage from Sen. John Fetterman (D-Pa.) via video, McCormick reminisced about his in-laws' humble beginnings, fleeing from Egypt to Dallas in search of religious freedom and the American dream. They sought the same principles that originally took root in Philadelphia with the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776, and the people of Pennsylvania have upheld these ideals ever since.

‘ I refuse to surrender. President Trump refuses to surrender. This November, there can be no surrender.’

Eventually, McCormick recalled, Pennsylvania became the birthplace of the steel industry that ushered in the Industrial Revolution. Unfortunately, as time went on, the need for steel dwindled, and American manufacturing fell by the wayside, replaced by cheap Chinese goods.

Most recently, the Biden administration even blocked investments in U.S. steel to the detriment of thousands of Pennsylvanian jobs, McCormick said.

According to McCormick, that changes now.

McCormick vowed to confront China head-on by unleashing American energy, ingenuity, and talent. With Pittsburgh steelworkers at the forefront, McCormick said he has worked with President Donald Trump to create more than 100,000 jobs.

He also cut red tape to help small business owners and start-ups get a leg up, enabled Westinghouse to launch new nuclear power, and helped Lehigh Valley grow into a booming drug manufacturing hub.

He listed several other major accomplishments for his state:

  • Hanwha Group is investing $5 billion in a shipyard.
  • $100 billion is going to energy, AI, and defense, along with tens of thousands of new jobs.
  • Household incomes are up by $3,000.
  • Taxes are down to let more Americans keep their money.
  • Tips and overtime are tax-free.

“We call it the American dream,” McCormick declared. “You work hard. You play by the rules. And you build a good life for your family.”

McCormick lamented that both Democrats and Republicans held these values dear at one time, but the former have since lost their way. The Democrats no longer stand for working families, he said, excusing Nazi tattoos on fellow members of their party and radical commentators like Hasan Piker, who proclaimed that “America deserved 9/11.”

RELATED: WATCH: John Fetterman makes STUNNING surprise appearance at Republican Midterm Convention

Kent NISHIMURA/AFP/Getty Images

Real America looks quite different. McCormick recounted his time in the 82nd Airborne Division during his deployment to Iraq. His platoon was diverse in all the best ways: a Southern Baptist from Alabama, a black man from Newark, a farm boy from Kansas, a college dropout from Boston, and a platoon sergeant from Puerto Rico.

Americans — all of them different in the way they spoke, looked, and thought, but united by the same values, dream, and love for country.

He likened their spirit to the people of Pennsylvania — the steelworkers, shipbuilders, welders, police officers, firefighters, patriots.

To send the point home, McCormick invited an entire team of Pennsylvanian workers to the stage. Like his platoon, they were a mix of races, genders, and professions, but they all share something in common. They are Pennsylvanians. They are Americans.

McCormick ended his speech with a call to arms — a declaration that every Republican should take to heart and remember on Election Day:

The choice is clear. Will we dream heroic dreams and build a better future? Or will we surrender to socialism? Defeatism? Anti-Americanism?

I refuse to surrender. President Trump refuses to surrender. This November, there can be no surrender.

Ladies and gentlemen, let's build an America worthy of our heroic dreams.

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WATCH: John Fetterman makes STUNNING surprise appearance at Republican Midterm Convention



A Democrat U.S. senator has made a stunning appearance at the Republican Midterm Convention and issued praise for his Republican counterpart while bashing socialism.

Sen. John Fetterman of Pennsylvania surprised the Republicans in attendance on Wednesday evening and appeared via video at the convention and introduced fellow Pennsylvania Sen. David McCormick (R).

'We'll work with President Trump to fight and defend the steel way of life right here in the Steel Valley.'

"Yes, I'm Senator John Fetterman [of] Pennsylvania. Yes, I'm a Democrat. Why am I here talking to you today?" Fetterman says in the video while wearing his finest hoodie.

"Because while I'm a common-sense Democrat, I'm always going to stand with America. I'm always going to reject the extremes and socialism and that anti-American way of life," he added.

Axios first reported the scoop about the stunning appearance by the Democrat.

"Dave McCormick is the kind of senator that gets the job done. And he's going to fight for Pennsylvania. I'm proud to count him as my friend," Fetterman continues on the video.

"Right back over my shoulder, that's the iconic U.S. Steel mill, and that's exactly the kind of thing that we'll work together, and we'll work with President [Donald] Trump to fight and defend the steel way of life right here in the Steel Valley," he added.

"I have this opportunity to introduce this great American, a great senator, and yes, he is in a different party, but I'm proud to count him as my great friend!" Fetterman concludes in the video.

Some speculated that Fetterman was going to use the occasion to announce a switch in party identification, but that did not happen.

RELATED: Liberals viciously attack John Fetterman for defending ICE: 'F**k you, f**k your mom'

Democrat Sen. John Fetterman makes surprise appearance at the GOP Midterm Convention to praise Trump and introduce fellow PA Senator Dave McCormick: "Why am I talking to you today? Because I'm a common sense Democrat. I'm always going to stand with America and reject socialism." pic.twitter.com/7gLt262A8s
— TheBlaze (@theblaze) September 9, 2026

The first night of the convention will close with a keynote address from Trump before going on to the second day on Thursday.

Blaze Media is offering live coverage of the convention on BlazeTV, which can be viewed below:

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‘Cluster F*ck’: Trump’s Dramatic Feud With Senate Republicans Boils Over

'I don't like a few people, but that's okay'

'Horrifying situation': Some Republicans retreat following Minneapolis shooting of anti-ICE agitator



Several Republican lawmakers are sounding the alarm following another shooting in Minnesota.

Anti-ICE agitator Alex Pretti was fatally shot by a federal agent in Minneapolis on Saturday, with the Department of Homeland Security saying he "violently resisted" when agents attempted to disarm him. This is the second fatal shooting of an anti-ICE agitator in Minnesota. Renee Good was shot earlier this month after turning her car and accelerating toward an agent.

'The killing yesterday ... should raise serious questions.'

Administration officials like DHS Secretary Kristi Noem and top adviser Stephen Miller have branded Pretti a "would-be assassin" who committed acts of "domestic terrorism."

This comes after weeks of mob violence, theft, and property destruction in response to ICE presence in Minneapolis. These often coordinated acts are indiscriminately aimed at federal agents conducting lawful operations. The protesters are also threatening journalists simply exposing their violent tactics and even intimidating local churchgoers.

While the investigation continues, some Republican senators and representatives have made an effort to distance themselves from what they called a "horrifying situation."

RELATED: Democrats threaten to shut down government over ICE funding: 'We are not powerless'

Gina Ferazzi / Los Angeles Times via Getty Images

Several senators who are known to buck the Trump administration came out with critical statements following the shooting, citing claims that conflict with DHS' narrative.

"The tragedy and chaos the country is witnessing in Minneapolis is shocking," Republican Sen. Lisa Murkowski of Alaska said in a post on X. "The killing yesterday of Alex Pretti, a U.S. citizen, by ICE agents should raise serious questions within the administration about the adequacy of immigration-enforcement training and the instructions officers are given on carrying out their mission."

"Lawfully carrying a firearm does not justify federal agents killing an American — especially, as video footage appears to show, after the victim had been disarmed," Murkowski said. "A comprehensive, independent investigation of the shooting must be conducted in order to rebuild trust and Congressional committees need to hold hearings and do their oversight work. ICE agents do not have carte blanche in carrying out their duties."

Republican Sen. Thom Tillis of North Carolina, who is notably retiring, said officials jumping to conclusions could risk tarnishing President Donald Trump's legacy.

"There must be a thorough and impartial investigation into yesterday's Minneapolis shooting, which is the basic standard that law enforcement and the American people expect following any officer-involved shooting," Tillis said in a post on X. "For this specific incident, that requires cooperation and transparency between federal, state, and local law enforcement. Any administration official who rushes to judgment and tries to shut down an investigation before it begins are doing an incredible disservice to the nation and to President Trump's legacy."

RELATED: DHS: Armed suspect fatally shot by federal agent in Minneapolis; suspect 'violently resisted' disarming attempt

Bill Clark/CQ-Roll Call, Inc via Getty Images

Other senators who have otherwise supported the administration also expressed skepticism after the shooting, calling for a thorough investigation.

"The nation witnessed a horrifying situation this weekend," Republican Sen. Pete Ricketts of Nebraska said in a post on X. "My prayers are with the family of Alex Pretti."

"My support for funding ICE remains the same. Enforcing our immigration laws makes our streets safer," Ricketts clarified ahead of a major Senate vote on DHS funding. "It also protects our national security. But we must also maintain our core values as a nation, including the right to protest and assemble. I expect a prioritized, transparent investigation into this incident."

Ricketts' Republican colleague Sen. Dave McCormick of Pennsylvania echoed a criticism put forth by the National Rifle Association, saying Pretti was lawfully exercising his right to carry a firearm.

"As I have often said, I support the Border Patrol, ICE, and the critical work they do to enforce our laws," McCormick said in a post on X. "Irresponsible rhetoric and a lack of cooperation from Minnesota's politicians are fueling a dangerous situation. I also agree with the NRA and others — we need a full investigation into the tragedy in Minneapolis. We need all the facts. We must enforce our laws in a way that protects the public while maintaining its trust. This gives our law enforcement officers the best chance to succeed in their difficult mission."

RELATED: Vance crushes false narrative about ICE 'arresting' 5-year-old boy

Photo by Nathan Posner/Anadolu via Getty Images

While several Republicans remained critical, others like Sen. Markwayne Mullin of Oklahoma came in defense of the Trump administration, suggesting protesters had crossed the line into obstructing law enforcement.

"Law-abiding citizens have every right to carry a firearm," Mullin said in a post on X. "You DO NOT have a right to obstruct law enforcement activity, or commit another felony with one. This is not difficult."

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UPenn Provost Resigns After Boosting Social Media Post Likening Charlie Kirk to ‘Hitler Youth’

The left-wing climate scientist and political activist Michael Mann resigned on Tuesday from his post as vice provost at the University of Pennsylvania. Mann stirred up controversy repeatedly over the past several months, most recently when he shared a social media post that compared Charlie Kirk to a member of the "Hitler Youth." Mann will remain at the university as a professor and the director of its Center for Science, Sustainability, and the Media.

The post UPenn Provost Resigns After Boosting Social Media Post Likening Charlie Kirk to ‘Hitler Youth’ appeared first on .

McCormick, Fetterman Unveil Bill To Move Office That Manages America's Oil Reserves From DC to Pittsburgh

Pennsylvania's two senators are joining forces in an attempt to relocate the Department of Energy's fossil fuel office to Pittsburgh, a blue-collar city with a rich manufacturing and energy legacy, the Washington Free Beacon has learned. Sens. Dave McCormick (R.) and John Fetterman (D.) introduced legislation Thursday that would move the Energy Department's Office of Fossil Energy and Carbon Management to the Steel City, an action the lawmakers say would bring federal officials closer to the industries and people they regulate. The bill would impact the office's entire 750-person staff and mandate that the relocation takes place within 12 months.

The post McCormick, Fetterman Unveil Bill To Move Office That Manages America's Oil Reserves From DC to Pittsburgh appeared first on .

John Fetterman Really Doesn’t Like Showing Up To Work On Mondays

'Those votes that I've missed are on Monday'

Republicans presented with Senate pickup opportunity as Democrat announces retirement



Democratic Sen. Jeanne Shaheen of New Hampshire announced Wednesday that she would not seek re-election in 2026, giving Republicans another opportunity to grow their Senate majority.

Shaheen has served in the Senate since 2009, flipping the previously red seat blue. Shaheen had also previously served as governor and in the state Senate.

'New Hampshire has a proud tradition of electing common-sense Republicans—and will do so again in 2026!'

"Today, after careful consideration, I'm announcing that I have made the difficult decision not to seek re-election to the Senate in 2026," Shaheen said in a statement Wednesday. "There are urgent challenges ahead, both here at home and around the world. And while I'm not seeking re-election — believe me — I am not retiring."

Although both Senate seats have been held by Democrats for the last few elections, New Hampshire has elected Republican governors since 2016, and Republicans have held on to a majority in the state Senate. Given the strong Republican voting presence in the state, the GOP has the opportunity to flip another key Senate seat.

"Another one!" Republican Sen. Tim Scott of South Carolina said in a statement Wednesday. "Shaheen's retirement is welcome news for Granite Staters eager for new leadership. New Hampshire has a proud tradition of electing common-sense Republicans—and will do so again in 2026!"

Republicans flipped four Democrat-held Senate seats in 2024, electing Republican Sens. Tim Sheehy of Montana, Dave McCormick of Pennsylvania, Bernie Moreno of Ohio, and Jim Justice of West Virginia. This leaves Republicans with a comfortable 53-seat majority to work with.

There has also been some speculation about a potential senatorial run by Republican former Gov. Chris Sununu. Although Sununu has been a past critic of President Donald Trump, he has since warmed up to the party leader and even endorsed him in 2024.

“I have not ruled it out completely, but folks in Washington have asked me to think about it and to consider it, and that is just kind of where I am,” Sununu told the New Hampshire Journal on Tuesday.

“I like getting stuff done,” Sununu said. “I don’t think they could handle me down there. I’d be like a lion in a cage.”

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Bob Casey Cries Uncle, Ending U.S. Senate Race Recount In Pennsylvania

Casey finally admitted defeat Thursday evening in a sober video posted on social media.

Democrat Bob Casey finally concedes Senate election to McCormick after trying to count illegal votes in Pennsylvania



The contentious campaign for one of Pennsylvania's seats in the U.S. Senate is finally over after Democratic incumbent Bob Casey called Republican challenger Dave McCormick to concede.

Republicans accused election officials in several Pennsylvania counties of trying to subvert the election by illegally counting votes in the recount. The Pennsylvania Supreme Court sided with Republicans, but some officials indicated that they would ignore the ruling and continue.

'When a Pennsylvanian takes the time to cast a legal vote, often waiting in long lines and taking time away from their work and family, they deserve to know that their vote will count. That’s democracy.'

On Thursday, 16 days since Election Day, Casey conceded the election.

"I just called Dave McCormick to congratulate him on his election to represent Pennsylvania in the United States Senate. As the first count of ballots is completed, Pennsylvanians can move forward with the knowledge that their voices were heard, whether their vote was the first to be counted or the last," he said in a video posted to social media.

McCormick issued a brief response.

"Senator Bob Casey dedicated his career to bettering our commonwealth. Dina and I want to extend our sincere gratitude to Senator Casey, Terese, and their family for their decades of service, hard work, and personal sacrifice," he said.

The official count of votes gave McCormick a lead of about 16,000 votes over Casey, which added up to a margin of just under .5%. That narrowly fell within the cut-off point for a recount, though critics said it was unlikely to overturn the official results given historical trends.

"When a Pennsylvanian takes the time to cast a legal vote, often waiting in long lines and taking time away from their work and family, they deserve to know that their vote will count. That’s democracy," Casey concluded.

The National Republican Senatorial Committee had called Casey's attorney in the matter a "scumbag" as the controversy continued.

The seat will give Republicans a 53-47 majority in the next session of the U.S. Senate.

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