Your Daily Guide

U.S. Senator John Fetterman’s seat isn’t up until 2028, and the Democrat hasn't said whether he's running. But that hasn’t stopped chatter over who’d be a strong contender to challenge him as Democrats continue to be disillusioned with his wishy-washy policies and work ethic. And after his party’s blue wave Fetterman-proofed the Senate, they’re ready to oust him for good.

• Republicans love Fetterman. Polls show Fetterman is more popular with Pennsylvania Republicans than Democrats — due in part to his statements on ICE, Israel, and the Iran war — so he could switch parties and run. Democratic Gov. Josh Shapiro said Sunday that Fetterman has “a lot of work to do to earn the trust" of Pennsylvanians.
• Netanyahu vs. Parker. One data point is representative of the dual criticism that Fetterman is overly focused on Israel and disinterested in local issues: He has met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu more times than with Mayor Parker.
• A Challenger Emerges. West Philadelphia resident Ahmed Moor launched his campaign yesterday, making him the first Democrat running in what’s anticipated to be a crowded field. Among the former Democratic committeeperson’s priorities are free healthcare, sanctions against Israel, and a wealth tax.
• Boyle Bows Out. Congressman Brendan Boyle, who represents a large swatch of Philly, had been name-dropped as a possible challenger. But with Democrats taking over control of the House of Representatives, Boyle said he could have more impact as chairman of the House Budget Committee — so he’s turning his focus to getting selected by his colleagues for that role.
• Battle of Western Pennsylvania. Congressman Chris DeLuzio from the southwestern part of the state has teased a potential run. DeLuzio campaigned with Fetterman in 2022, but has increasingly called him out for “actively undermining” the Democratic party.

What Are the Limits to AI?

As AI blurs lines between what’s real and what’s fake, Pennsylvania is enacting a law mandating that certain AI use in advertisements be disclosed. It remains unclear to what degree the law will be enforced. But as AI permeates advertising from politics to food, some boundaries are being set. [🎧City Cast Philly]

Renters Demand End To Rip-Offs

AI just isn’t in your ads; it’s answering calls to your landlord. Fed-up tenants are mobilizing to end practices they view as exploitative, such as AI property managers and junk fees for services that renters don’t actually need. Organizers hope the campaign is a launching pad for bigger objectives like rent control. [Grid Philly]

PPA and City Hall Point Fingers Over Ticketing Spree

The Philadelphia Parking Authority ghosted a City Council hearing on the thousands of parking tickets issued and cars towed around the Fan Festival at Lemon Hill over the summer. So if you want to face off against the PPA, check out this new documentary highlighting a man’s fight to beat $800 in parking tickets. [Philadelphia Tribune, Midbrow]

Meet the Woman Fighting Back Against Delivery Bots

University of Pennsylvania professor Carolyn Marvin is continuing her anti-robot crusade after being cited for disorderly conduct for intentionally blocking an Uber Eats bot during a delivery. The Guardian followed her around Center City as she confronted the robots — and greeted her new fans. [The Guardian]

Philly Debuts New Pothole Patrol

The Road Warriors Pothole Squad promises to fix potholes throughout the city within 48 hours. Reports can be made here. That’s not the only quality of life issue the city is addressing. The citywide cleaning program’s fall cycle will run through Jan. 29. [Office of Clean and Green, 6ABC]