Fetterman's chief of staff leaves amid string of departures

Pennsylvania Senator John Fetterman’s Chief of Staff Departure Marks Continued Turnover

In a noteworthy development within Pennsylvania’s political landscape, Senator John Fetterman’s chief of staff, Krysta Sinclair Juris, is set to leave her position, as confirmed by two sources to POLITICO on Tuesday. This departure is emblematic of the ongoing turnover plaguing Fetterman’s congressional office, raising eyebrows amid persistent scrutiny regarding the Democrat’s health and evolving political image.

Axios was the first to report on Juris’ plans to exit Fetterman’s team.

In an effort to stabilize his office, Fetterman has appointed Cabelle St. John, who has served as his deputy chief of staff, senior adviser, and scheduling director, as the new chief of staff. “Cabelle has been a trusted advisor since day one in the office. I’m lucky to have her stepping up as my Chief of Staff, and I’m confident she’ll excel in this role,” Fetterman remarked in a statement. He also expressed gratitude towards Juris for her invaluable contributions over the past two years, wishing her the best in future endeavors.

The senator’s office has seen a revolving door of staff in the past year and a half, with Fetterman’s former chief of staff, Adam Jentleson, along with several top communications aides and the legislative director, all parting ways. Recently, two additional aides have also departed, suggesting a deeper issue within the office dynamics.

During a debate in Boston with Republican Senator Dave McCormick, Fetterman addressed criticisms regarding his missed votes and committee hearings, dismissing them as a “weird smear.” He previously criticized a New York magazine article that highlighted concerns from former and current aides regarding his health, labeling it a “one-source hit piece.”

“I’m here. I’m doing that job,” he asserted during the debate, which aired on Fox Nation. “If I miss some of those votes — I mean some of those procedural votes — I’ve made 90 percent of them. We all know that those I missed were on Mondays; those are travel days. I have three young kids, and I’ve made a choice about those throwaway procedural votes. If you want to attack me for that, go ahead.”

Beyond health concerns, some former staffers have expressed frustration over Fetterman’s staunch support for Israel and his recent meeting with former President Donald Trump, adding yet another layer of complexity to the dynamics within his office.