This week, rule changes in the Senate allowed Sen. John Fetterman (D-Pa.) to dress casually on the Senate floor. Photos showed Fetterman in a hoodie and shorts.
“Not so flattering,” said WWL’s Newell Normand of Fetterman’s outfit. “Wearing about two sizes too big of a hoodie and shorts that looks like he could gain about 80 more pounds and not fill those shorts out.”
From Newell’s perspective, clothes can signal that someone takes their work seriously.
“Is that a lot to ask? To put on a coat and a tie?” he said. “And things of that nature. I mean, when I used to go out and deliver speeches as a sheriff, I was either in uniform or a suit. You had to look the part.”
Normand has a four-decade career in law enforcement, served as Jefferson Parish Sheriff, and had a career in politics, so he’s no stranger to public speaking. In his experience, setting the tone was important – and accomplished in part by looking the part.
“What’s next? Where do we go from here? We can go in bathing suits?” Normand asked.
However, Normand acknowledged that the causal look is part of Fetterman’s “brand.” Fetterman, who has struggled with health issues recently, was already known for his penchant for casual dress, according to KDKA.
Listen here to find out what Normand thinks about the deeper meaning of the Senate’s move and the impact it might have on the legislature.