With President Biden stepping down from the 2024 presidential race, speculation is mounting about potential vice presidential candidates on the Democratic ticket. Among the names being considered is Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro.
Shapiro’s Position Amid Biden’s Withdrawal
On Saturday, Shapiro avoided discussing “hypotheticals” about entering the race, but the political landscape has shifted dramatically. With Biden officially out, Shapiro is now seen as a possible running mate for Vice President Kamala Harris, should she secure the Democratic nomination.
Potential Democratic Running Mates
Shapiro is one of several prominent Democrats being floated as potential vice presidential candidates. Other names include Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear, Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, and Maryland Governor Wes Moore. The choice of running mate will be crucial in bolstering Harris’s campaign and appealing to a broad voter base.
Shapiro Endorses Harris
Just hours after Biden announced his withdrawal, Shapiro endorsed Harris for president. He stated, “I’ve known Kamala Harris for nearly two decades – we’ve both been prosecutors, we’ve both stood up for the rule of law, we’ve both fought for the people and delivered results. Kamala Harris is a patriot worthy of our support and she will continue the work of generations of Americans who came before us to perfect our union, protect our democracy, and advance real freedom. She has served the country honorably as Vice President and she is ready to be President.”
Shapiro’s Political Background
Shapiro, a native of Abington, gained national attention after defeating Republican Doug Mastriano in the 2022 Pennsylvania governor race. Before becoming governor, Shapiro served as Pennsylvania’s Attorney General from 2017-2023 under former Governor Tom Wolf. He also chaired the Montgomery County Board of Commissioners from 2012-16 and was a state Representative in Pennsylvania.
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Shapiro’s National Recognition
Shapiro’s administration garnered national spotlight after the collapse of I-95 in Philadelphia. His swift action led to the highway’s reopening in just 12 days with a temporary roadway, a move that was live-streamed and praised widely.
Shapiro’s Political Ambitions
Despite his rising profile, Shapiro has not officially expressed interest in joining the vice presidential race. In a May interview with CBS News Philadelphia, when asked about a potential run for the White House in 2028, Shapiro said, “No. Listen, man, I’m governor, and I’m proud to be governor. God willing, I’m going to be governor for a long time, as long as the good people of Pennsylvania will continue to have me. I’ve got a lot of work to do here, and I’m focused on doing that work.”
Shapiro’s Appeal to Trump Supporters
A New York Times poll in May revealed that Shapiro is popular with a third of former President Donald Trump supporters in Pennsylvania, a crucial battleground state. This bipartisan appeal could be a significant asset in a national campaign.
Democratic Leaders’ Support for Shapiro
Philadelphia Democratic Party Chairman and former Congressman Bob Brady has voiced strong support for Shapiro as a vice presidential candidate. “Our Governor, Josh Shapiro, would be an excellent choice. His addition to the Democratic ticket would significantly boost our chances in Pennsylvania and in communities like ours across the country. As a governing partner, Josh’s ‘Get [expletive] Done’ mentality and bipartisan track record are exactly what America wants and needs.”
Democratic National Committee’s Decision
Senior members of the Democratic National Committee are holding an emergency meeting on Sunday night to decide the party’s representation for the 2024 election against Trump and JD Vance. The selection of a vice presidential candidate will play a critical role in shaping the Democratic campaign strategy moving forward.
As the Democratic National Convention approaches in August, the focus will be on whether Kamala Harris can secure the nomination and who she will choose as her running mate to strengthen the party’s chances in the 2024 election.