A trio of Republican senators came to the defense of their Democratic colleague John Fetterman on Friday, accusing the media of a smear campaign. Why it matters: It's unusual to see this level of public defense for a member of the opposing party.

Senator John Fetterman faces scrutiny following reports of an emotional outburst and renewed concerns about his mental health. Allegations of erratic behavior and paranoia have surfaced, prompting both support and criticism.

In today’s edition, we examine John Fetterman’s place in the Senate, where the Pennsylvania Democrat is increasingly on an island.