Senator Fetterman Brushes Off Questions as Additional Staff Member Resigns Amid Staff Turnover

Another high-profile departure has hit the office of Senator John Fetterman, as his chief of staff, Krysta Sinclair Juris, is set to step down just months after taking the role. This latest resignation adds to a growing list of staffers who have left Fetterman's team since he entered the Senate in 2023, fueling further questions about the stability of his office and wider concerns regarding the senator’s leadership style and health.

Fetterman, known for his outspoken and often unconventional approach, appeared reluctant to address the spate of departures directly. When questioned this week, he deflected by referencing other members of Congress, stating, "Have you spoken to the significant number of my colleagues that have much higher staff turnover?" He maintained this stance even when pressed further about the specifics of Juris’ exit, suggesting that scrutiny should be shared across Capitol Hill and quickly exited into an elevator to avoid further comment.

The senator’s office later confirmed that Cabelle St. John, who has served as Fetterman's scheduling director, senior advisor, and deputy chief of staff, would take over as the new chief of staff. In a statement, Fetterman emphasized his confidence in St. John, calling her a "trusted advisor since day one," and expressed gratitude for Juris’ service over the past two years. "I’m lucky to have her taking over as my Chief of Staff, and I’m confident she’ll do a great job. I’m grateful for Krysta’s work. She’s been an invaluable member of the team for over two years, and I wish her all the best," he said.

This development follows a tumultuous year within Fetterman’s staff ranks. Last month, two additional aides departed following a report that raised new alarms about Fetterman's health and its effect on his ability to lead the office. Earlier this year, both his deputy chief of staff and communications director also resigned, signaling ongoing instability behind the scenes.

Fetterman has faced heightened scrutiny in recent weeks—not only over staff turmoil and persistent health concerns but also for his willingness to break with Democratic Party lines on key policy issues. Frequently siding with Senate Republicans on topics like Israel and immigration, Fetterman has argued that his party has "lost the argument" in these areas. His maverick reputation was evident at a recent bipartisan forum with Pennsylvania’s Republican Senator David McCormick, where Fetterman openly acknowledged the challenges of advocating for centrist positions within today’s increasingly polarized political environment.

Despite the controversies, Fetterman remains steadfast in projecting an image of resilience and independence. He continues to emphasize his commitment to bipartisanship, even as critics and observers question whether ongoing staff departures could hinder his effectiveness in the Senate. As the situation unfolds, all eyes will be on how the senator—and his reorganized office—navigate the turbulent waters ahead.