NBC reporter Dasha Burns' remarks during Pennsylvania Senate candidate John Fetterman's interview draws flak

A news journalist who interviewed Pennsylvania Senate candidate John Fetterman, an on-air statement she created about his having difficulties understanding part of their conversation should not be interpreted as a reflection on his eligibility for office after he suffered a stroke. However, reporter Dasha Burns' observation that Fetterman looked to have difficulty comprehending small chat before their interview drew notice — and Republicans retweeted it as they sought an advantage in the Senate contest between Republican Mehmet Oz and Fetterman.

Fetterman, a Democrat, had a stroke on May 13, and his health has emerged as an issue in the campaign. Burns' interview with Fetterman on Friday, which aired Tuesday, was his first on-camera interview since his stroke. He employed a closed-captioning gadget that displayed the text of Burns' queries on a computer screen.




After reading the questions, Fetterman appeared to have had some issues answering them. However, NBC showed him stumbling over the word "empathetic." Burns stated that when the captioning device was turned off, it was unclear whether he understood our chat. But Fetterman has been mute about whether he will provide medical records or allow reporters to interrogate his physicians. He has been having speech therapy and received a letter from his cardiologist that if he eats healthy, takes prescribed medicine, and exercises, he will be better.

FAQs

Who is Fetterman?
John Fetterman is an American politician who has served as Pennsylvania's 34th lieutenant governor since 2019.

Who is Dasha Burns'?
Dasha Burns is An NBC News correspondent.