Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro Considered a Leading Vice Presidential Contender!
With the announcement from President Joe Biden on Sunday that he will not seek the Democratic Party nomination for a second term, attention has quickly turned to potential vice-presidential candidates, including Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro. Vice President Kamala Harris, endorsed by Biden, is widely expected to pursue the nomination at the Democratic National Convention in August. Among several Democratic governors gaining attention as potential running mates, Shapiro’s name frequently arises. But who exactly is Josh Shapiro, and what could he bring to the ticket?
Who is Josh Shapiro?
Born in Kansas City, Missouri, and raised in Upper Dublin Township, a Philadelphia suburb, Josh Shapiro became Pennsylvania’s 48th governor in January 2023. Shapiro’s political career began in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, representing the 153rd district, which includes Abington Township and part of Upper Dublin Township. After his legislative service, he was elected to the Montgomery County Board of Commissioners in 2011, where he helped shift control away from Republicans for the first time. Shapiro then served as Pennsylvania’s Attorney General from 2017 to 2023, before launching his successful gubernatorial campaign in 2022.
Political Achievements
As Attorney General, Shapiro gained national attention for his investigation into sexual abuse within the Catholic Church, producing a grand jury report that revealed abuse of more than 1,000 children by over 300 priests. His office also played a significant role in protecting health care access for nearly two million Pennsylvanians and secured $1 billion for the state in a national opioid settlement.
Shapiro has been an advocate for various social issues, including abortion rights. He has publicly supported abortion access and pledged to veto any bills restricting it in Pennsylvania. Recently, Shapiro signed a $47.6 billion budget focused on increasing public education funding, supporting economic development, and boosting transit systems. However, it did not include some of his revenue-generating proposals like legalizing recreational cannabis.
Personal Background
Shapiro, a Georgetown Law graduate, is Jewish and has consistently voiced support for Israel, especially during the Israel-Hamas conflict, while condemning antisemitism. He met his wife, Pennsylvania First Lady Lori Shapiro, in high school, and they have four children. The family resides at the Pennsylvania Governor’s Residence in Harrisburg.
Potential Vice Presidential Nominee
Shapiro’s recent prominence in national politics adds to his appeal as a vice presidential candidate. Following a shooting at a campaign rally for Donald Trump in Butler County, Shapiro’s leadership was praised across party lines, including by GOP Senate nominee Dave McCormick. Analysts like Chris Borick, director of the Muhlenberg College Institute of Public Opinion, believe Shapiro is a strong contender due to his high approval ratings in the crucial swing state of Pennsylvania.
Shapiro’s experience, though relatively brief, is seen as a double-edged sword. While some argue that his short tenure might be a liability, others believe his extensive work as attorney general compensates for it. Political strategist Samuel Chen notes that Shapiro’s resume could both bolster and challenge his candidacy, given his significant achievements and moments in the national spotlight.
Democratic Convention and Beyond
As the Democratic National Convention approaches, the focus on Shapiro and other potential vice-presidential picks will intensify. According to a Washington Post report, Shapiro is being vetted alongside other notable Democrats, such as Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear, North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper, Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, and Arizona Senator Mark Kelly. Shapiro’s strong ties to Pennsylvania, often regarded as a pivotal swing state, make him a particularly attractive candidate for the Democratic ticket.
In the event Shapiro joins Harris on the ticket and they win the election, he would become the highest-ranking Jewish politician in American history. This milestone could resonate with Jewish voters, particularly those disillusioned with the Democratic Party’s stance on Israel and Gaza.
If Shapiro vacates the governor’s office before his term concludes, Lieutenant Governor Austin Davis would assume the role of governor. The line of succession would place Senate President Pro Tempore Kim Ward, a Republican, as the new lieutenant governor, marking a rare instance of bipartisan leadership in Pennsylvania’s executive branch.
Shapiro’s Endorsement of Harris
Following Biden’s announcement, Shapiro expressed his gratitude and admiration for the President while endorsing Harris. He emphasized the need for unity within the Democratic Party to secure a victory in November, highlighting Pennsylvania’s critical role in the election. Shapiro’s statement underscored his commitment to helping Harris win the presidency and his belief in her leadership.
As speculation continues, Josh Shapiro remains a significant figure in the discussion of potential vice-presidential candidates. His political acumen, leadership experience, and connection to a key swing state position him as a formidable contender on the national stage.
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