As Donald Trump took the oath of office for his second term as US President, an unexpected contender made headlines: Democratic Senator John Fetterman. The presidential inauguration ceremony on Monday was moved indoors due to forecast temperatures as low as -11 degrees Celsius. While most attendees were in formal attire appropriate for the occasion and the weather, Fetterman arrived at the US Capitol wearing gray shorts, a black hoodie and black On Cloud sneakers.
Senator John Fetterman arrives at the inauguration in gym shorts
This guy is absolutely crazy????
– JohnRocker (@itsJohnRocker) 20 January 2025
The senator’s unconventional look has now become a topic of discussion. An ex user wrote, “Bro got up, wore his slip on and came for the inauguration.”
Brother got up, wore his slip-ons and came for the inauguration.
– Madison (@Maddytx76) 20 January 2025
Another A real working class man would never come to an important work event dressed like this.”
Fetterman’s scruffy appearance is symptomatic of growing up spoiled and privileged. A real working class man would never come to an important work event wearing clothes like this.
– martyr made (@martyr made) 20 January 2025
“You have to love this guy. Completely indestructible,” one comment read.
You’ve got to love this guy. Not completely corrupt????
– IndeosperamusIII ???????????????✝️ (@Indeosperamus3) 20 January 2025
Known for his signature casual style, the Pennsylvania Democrat has become synonymous with hoodies and shorts, an image strengthened when Senate dress code rules were loosened to accommodate less formal attire in 2023. “Aren’t there more important things we should be talking about than me dressing like a slut?” he told MSNBC at the time.
Fetterman’s recent wardrobe choice brings to mind Bernie Sanders’ viral gloves at the 2020 inauguration.
The senator, who stands 6’8” tall, was previously reported to have a cnn Interviewees explained that finding formal wear for their body was challenging and comfort was their priority. “Nobody came straight up to me and said if you wear a hoodie the world will burn,” he said, adding that he is recognized for his work, not his attire.
Trump’s inauguration ceremony also had some memorable moments. Singer Carrie Underwood’s performance America the Beautiful A technical glitch led to an impromptu acapella performance, while Melania Trump’s wide-brimmed hat turned the president’s attempt to kiss her into an awkward air kiss. The event was attended by many including tech giants Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos and Mark Zuckerberg as well as influencers Logan and Jake Paul.
The day also sparked controversy over Trump’s proposal to rename the Gulf of Mexico the “America’s Gulf” and his decision to pardon 1,500 of the January 6 Capitol riot protesters.