Josh Shapiro for governor

Governor Josh Shapiro of Pennsylvania has emerged as a leading candidate for Vice President Kamala Harris's 2024 running mate, largely due to his appeal in the critical battleground state of Pennsylvania. While he could potentially bolster Harris's standing in his home state, his centrist positions, particularly on issues like Israel and school choice, have raised concerns among progressive Democrats who fear that his selection could alienate key voter demographics. Shapiro's strong support for Israel and previous controversial stances have prompted some activists to oppose his potential nomination, claiming it could deepen divides within the party and hinder efforts to unify against Trump. Comparisons have been drawn to historical events where a vice presidential pick aligned closely with unpopular policies led to electoral failure. As the Democratic party grapples with internal conflicts regarding foreign policy, particularly related to Gaza, Shapiro's candidacy poses a significant dilemma for Harris. The broader implications of his selection could echo past political struggles, potentially threatening the party's chances in the upcoming election.