In an unusual bipartisan move, Pennsylvania’s two U.S. senators, Democrat John Fetterman and Republican Dave McCormick, have filed paperwork with the Federal Election Commission to establish a joint fundraising committee named “Common Ground PA.” The move, first reported by Politico, marks a rare instance of senators from opposite sides of the aisle pooling their fundraising apparatus.
According to the filing, the committee includes both senators’ leadership PACs and their principal campaign committees. Under federal regulations, participants in a joint fundraising committee are the only entities permitted to receive money raised through the effort. Brendan Glavin, director of insights for the non-partisan transparency organization OpenSecrets, noted that while the committee is legally structured to raise funds, the primary objective may be messaging rather than financial accumulation.
“The goal may be more to present both of them as being people who are willing to work with the other side,” Glavin stated, noting that such a strategy aims to appeal to voters weary of hyper-partisanship. However, experts suggest the appeal may be niche, as many donors typically prefer to support candidates strictly aligned with their own political ideology.
The political timing for the move is notable. Senator Fetterman faces reelection in the 2028 cycle, while Senator McCormick is not up for reelection until 2030. Recent financial filings indicate Fetterman holds approximately $1.99 million in cash on hand, compared to McCormick’s $954,000. Both senators currently navigate complex approval landscapes in Pennsylvania, a critical swing state. A February 2026 Quinnipiac poll showed Fetterman with a 46% approval rating, while 37% of respondents approved of McCormick’s performance.
Representatives for McCormick told local media that the new PAC is designed to accommodate donors interested in supporting both senators. Both offices were reached for further comment regarding the specific strategy behind this collaboration.