As the vice presidential race for Kamala Harris draws to a rather hushed close, it seems that Pennsylvania’s Governor, Josh Shapiro, may be the one to bear the dubious honor of accompanying her in the 2024 elections. Shapiro and Arizona Senator Mark Kelly were the finalists after the Harris squad carried out meetings with each, carefully reducing their options. Though it is assumed that Harris has already made her choice, she is maintaining a secretive stance until the winning candidate has been personally met, adding yet another level of unnecessary drama to the proceedings.
Drawing upon White House reports, along with campaign and Democratic Party insiders, Axios suggests that there are strong indicators redirecting towards Shapiro. The 51-year-old governor, who also happens to be a father of four, is depicted as a calm and stable presence, modified to appeal to the masses. Shapiro boasts of a 61% approval rate in the Keystone State, but it raises the question if popularity at the state-level can be an accurate measure for a national-level position.
The importance of Pennsylvania, with its weighty sum of 19 electoral college votes, is recognized by both Democrats and Republicans. Hence, they see Shapiro as a valuable asset in their election strategies. However, the knowledge of such a transparent tactic only reveals the desperation crawling beneath the surface of the Dems’ campaign.
An interesting surge in Shapiro’s popularity was observed after CNN reported his cancellation of a series of fundraising events in New York. While Harris’ team has tried their utmost to dismiss its importance, the vice presidential candidate’s first instance of sharing the dais with her second in command is scheduled to happen in Shapiro’s home turf of Philadelphia. Perhaps, an attempt to grab the limelight from its familiar faces, but one can’t be too sure.
According to Axios, post Biden’s resignation from the race and his endorsement of his Vice President, the senior Democrats have communicated their unwillingness to fancy any further surprises. The perhaps unintentionally humorous quote reported by the outlet, ‘Democrats believe that if Harris has telegraphed it’s Shapiro, she should pick Shapiro,’ may very well sum up the perplexing logic that governs their decision-making.
Axios additionally reveals that a Trump insider announced that several high-ranking Republicans believe Pennsylvania to be the key playing field and predicted that Harris would choose Shapiro. The quote ‘We don’t know if Shapiro is Harris’ pick. But lots of sources we trust don’t see another choice,’ underlines the lack of faith in Harris’ decision-making capabilities.
Shapiro, a member of the Jewish faith, has previously gone on record to condemn Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for the air raids on Gaza following the October 7 Hamas attack. While he simultaneously affirms Israel’s right to self-defense, his stance places him at odds with certain left-wing sections as reported by the Guardian. Hence, it could be noted that identity politics doesn’t necessarily guarantee coherent policies.
Once this anticipatory rally featuring Harris and her presumably confirmed running mate takes place in Philadelphia on Tuesday, it seems that the duo plan to embark on a speedy tour of battleground states. This whistle-stop tour includes Wisconsin, Michigan, North Carolina, Georgia, Arizona, and Nevada according to their campaign. But, whether this hurried tag-team will actually suffice to woo the voters in these vital regions remains to be seen.
If Arizona Senator Mark Kelly was passed over in the race to assist Harris, it must be remembered that she was probably looking for a partner with more than just astronaut credentials. Kelly’s old employer, NASA, might find a Mars Rover more compatible with Harris’ distant, unrelatable persona.
The Democrats continue to adhere to their tried and tested method of appointing individuals to key positions based on identity politics. Shapiro’s Jewish faith, while it may be a strong factor in the eyes of the Dems, simply does not guarantee his capabilities as a vice presidential nominee, let alone a future Director for the entire nation.
While Shapiro’s 61% approval rate in the Keystone State is undeniably an impressive figure, it should be noted that popularity at a state level does not necessarily translate to a national scale. Being well-received in Pennsylvania does not assure his persona will resonate with the varied demography of the entire United States.
The high approval ratings and fan following in a state do not necessarily qualify an individual to hold a position as significant as the Vice President of the United States. Democrats’ choice based on local acceptability can be seen as their inability to scan the larger perspective, which is crucial for effective decision-making at the national level.
Whether Shapiro’s condemnation of Netanyahu’s actions will resonate positively with American Jews remains to be seen. Considering the complexity of the issue and the diverse perspectives within the Jewish community, this stance could potentially alienate voters rather than secure their support.
In conclusion, while it appears that Governor Shapiro may indeed be Kamala Harris’ pick for VP, the choice, like many others within the Democratic Party, seems to be hinged more on theatrics and quick but arguably superficial solutions than substantive reasoning or merit.