A campaign to prevent Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro from becoming Kamala Harris's running mate in her presidential bid is gaining traction, according to a report by the Times of Israel. The effort, which includes an article in The New Republic and a dedicated website called "No Genocide Josh," has sparked accusations of antisemitism due to its focus on Shapiro's stance on Israel.
The Times of Israel reports that Harris is expected to announce her vice presidential pick by Tuesday, with speculation mounting that Shapiro could be the choice. This has intensified efforts to block his selection, particularly from left-wing groups critical of his support for Israel.
Critics argue that Shapiro, who is Jewish, stands out among potential running mates for his vocal defense of Israel and concerns about antisemitism on college campuses. David Klion, writing in The New Republic, claimed Shapiro "stands out among the current field of potential running mates as being egregiously bad on Palestine."
However, supporters of Shapiro, including Jewish and non-Jewish commentators and Democratic members of Congress, contend that he is being unfairly singled out. They point out that other potential candidates – Governor Andy Beshear of Kentucky, Governor Tim Walz of Minnesota, and Arizona Senator Mark Kelly – also have pro-Israel records but haven't faced similar criticism.
California Representative Adam Schiff tweeted, "Singling him out, or applying a double standard to him over the war in Gaza, is antisemitic and wrong." Schiff, who is Jewish, added, "Don't go there."
There are several incredible options for vice president. The superb Governor of Pennsylvania, @JoshShapiroPA, is one of them.
Singling him out, or applying a double standard to him over the war in Gaza, is antisemitic and wrong.
Don't go there.
— Adam Schiff (@AdamSchiff) August 1, 2024
The controversy has highlighted broader tensions within the Democratic Party over Israel policy. The Democratic Socialists of America, which recently made anti-Zionism a litmus test for endorsements, is among the groups opposing Shapiro's potential selection.
Amy Spitalnick, CEO of the Jewish Council for Public Affairs, said, "They can criticize him on policy – that debate is healthy. But when it's only the Jewish candidate being targeted with name-calling and personal attacks related to Israel, we need to be clear about how dangerous that is and not give cover to it."
Shapiro has been outspoken in blaming Hamas for the war while advocating for a two-state solution. He has also criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's handling of the conflict, calling him one of the worst leaders in the world.
