Mark Ruffalo Calls for John Fetterman to Step Down from Senate After Jon Stewart Humiliation

Source: Daily Beast's Obsessed

August 6, 2026

Actor Mark Ruffalo has urged Pennsylvania Senator John Fetterman to resign following a controversial interview Fetterman gave to Jon Stewart. The exchange, which has since gone viral, featured Fetterman stumbling through statements asserting that Democrats who criticize Israel should not be part of the Democratic Party. The senator also expressed his unwavering support for Israel's right to defend itself.

Ruffalo responded to the interview on X (formerly Twitter), echoing Stewart’s criticism of Fetterman’s remarks. “Here’s the problem,” Ruffalo wrote. “When you put another country above the USA, when you are in the U.S. government, no matter what you say, you aren’t working for the American people. Go be a lobbyist. Register as a lobbyist for a foreign government and make your living that way, but don’t take a paycheck from the U.S. taxpayer. Get out of representing the people of the USA.”

Ruffalo, known for his advocacy on various social issues, has received four Academy Award nominations for his performances in films such as *The Kids Are All Right*, *Foxcatcher*, *Spotlight*, and *Poor Things*. He is a vocal opponent of the Trump administration and has taken a stand against what he describes as Israel’s “systemic attacks” on Gaza hospitals. 

During his interview, Stewart attempted to clarify Fetterman’s comments, questioning the senator's stance that Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) candidates should run for office independently. “You’re saying that these candidates may have great ideas for the economy...but if they don’t agree with you on Israel, you don’t want them in your party,” Stewart remarked.

Stewart continued to challenge Fetterman on his views, particularly regarding his criticism of former Democratic Maine Senate candidate Graham Platner, who withdrew from the race after allegations of sexual assault. “If your concern with Graham Platner is you didn’t think he was very nice to women, you’re ignoring an awful lot of evidence for the current president about his relationship with women,” Stewart said.

Ruffalo’s comments come after he publicly supported Fetterman in his 2022 campaign against Mehmet Oz, defending the senator's health amid scrutiny related to his recovery from a stroke.