John Fetterman wearing shorts at Trump's inauguration divides Internet: 'There should be a dress code'

WASHINGTON DC: Senator John Fetterman of Pennsylvania turned heads at President Donald Trump’s inauguration on Monday, January 20.

Despite the freezing temperatures in Washington, DC, he attended the event in his signature casual style. Defying the weather with his unconventional outfit choice, sporting a black Carhartt hoodie, gray gym shorts, and sneakers. 

John Fetterman walks in at Donald Trump's inauguration wearing shorts despite freezing DC weather

While most attendees dressed formally for the swearing-in ceremony of the 47th president, John Fetterman’s casual attire stood out.

The inauguration was moved inside the Capitol Rotunda due to icy weather conditions, however, the cold did not deter the Pennsylvania senator from donning his usual clothing preference.

Fetterman’s casual style is nothing new and has been a topic of discussion in the past.

On 'Real Time with Bill Maher' in June 2024, host Bill Maher asked Fetterman about his preference for hoodies and shorts: “What’s the deal with the wardrobe?” according to Deadline.

John Fetterman’s signature casual attire remains consistent

This is not the first time John Fetterman’s wardrobe has made headlines. In 2024, he donned a hoodie with a tuxedo design paired with shorts during a date night with his wife Gisele, to whom he has been married for 15 years.

Earlier this year, he became the first Democratic senator to meet Trump at his Florida estate, once again opting for his signature casual look, as per Daily Mail. 

Fetterman told Bill Maher, “I’m not making a statement. I am into comfort, and I don’t have to iron, and it’s hard to find suits,” referring to his 6-foot, 8-inch frame.

He added, “I never understood why anyone thought that was interesting. More people seemed concerned about me wearing a hoodie on the floor than Senators taking bribes.”

John Fetterman wearing shorts to Donald Trump's inauguration divides Internet 

John Fetterman’s outfit at the inauguration sparked a flurry of reactions online, with opinions ranging from supportive to critical.

Some speculated that the outfit suggested it wasn’t too cold to hold the inauguration outdoors.

“Fetterman is actually proving that it was not too cold to hold the inauguration outside (he walked there in shorts). There had to be a major security threat,” Collin Rug posted on X.

Others were less forgiving of the senator’s outfit choice. “He’s just weird,” one social media user wrote. Another remarked, “His lack of respect for the Office of US Senator is staggering. I’m growing to despise his entire act.”

Some defended Fetterman, calling his decision bold. “John Fetterman wearing shorts to the inauguration after Trump wussed out because of the cold is a boss move,” one person commented.

However, critics continued to express their displeasure, with one netizen writing, “C’mon man. Show some class.” Another remarked, "It's pathetic."

One individual suggested. “Honestly, there should be a dress code. They shouldn’t have let him in. Disrespectful.”

This article contains remarks made on the Internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online.