On Wednesday evening at the Democratic National Convention, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro (D) expressed strong support for Minnesota Governor Tim Walz’s selection as Vice President Kamala Harris’s running mate.
Shapiro praised the choice, emphasizing his enthusiasm for both Walz and Harris, and affirmed his commitment to supporting their campaign. In an appearance on Fox News’ “Special Report” with Bret Baier, Shapiro highlighted his satisfaction with the vice presidential pick, stating that Harris had made an excellent decision and that he was eager to back the ticket.
Shapiro had been considered a potential candidate for the vice presidential spot himself before Harris confirmed Walz’s appointment. After the announcement, Shapiro described Walz as a powerful addition to the ticket who would assist Harris in advancing the nation’s progress.
The selection process for Harris’s running mate was marked by internal discord within the Democratic Party. Shapiro faced criticism from some progressive factions due to his past positions on the Israel-Hamas conflict and his stance on school vouchers.
This criticism led to frustration among Shapiro’s supporters, including Jewish lawmakers, who felt that the critiques misrepresented his views and approached the issue with a bias that bordered on antisemitism.
Representative Jared Moskowitz (D-Fla.) defended Shapiro, suggesting that his position on Israel was in line with the broader consensus, yet he was being unfairly scrutinized. In response to concerns about the Israel-Hamas conflict’s impact on party unity, Shapiro articulated a perspective that acknowledges the severe casualties and destruction on both sides.
He emphasized that the Democratic Party aims to understand and address the suffering experienced by all involved and seeks a resolution that includes the return of hostages and a possible path to peace.