A recent revelation from Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro sheds light on his controversial vetting process during Vice President Kamala Harris’ selection as her running mate for the 2024 elections. In his forthcoming memoir, Shapiro accusingly discusses questions posed by Harris’ vetting team concerning his associations with the Israeli government.
Allegations Against Harris’ Vetting Team
Shapiro claims that Dana Remus, a senior member of Harris’ vetting team and former White House counsel, inquired if he had ever acted as an agent for the Israeli government. Shapiro expresses his surprise at the question, finding it deeply offensive. Remus defended her inquiry by stating it was necessary for the vetting process.
Background and Responses
Shapiro, who identifies as a proud Zionist, reflects on rising antisemitism linked to the protests that surged post-Hamas’ October 7, 2023, attack, condemning some demonstrations for their overt antisemitic tones. Despite his critical stance toward Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government, he faced backlash from some factions on the left, who labeled him “Genocide Josh.”
His background includes volunteer work in Israel, where he spent time on a kibbutz and served on an Israeli army base. Additionally, he briefly worked in the Israeli Embassy’s public affairs division early in his career. Yet, Shapiro’s team has chosen to downplay these experiences, and he later asserted that his college writings do not represent his current viewpoints.
Questions from the Vice President
During a significant interview, Harris probed Shapiro about his prior criticisms of campus protests, asking if he would apologize for his remarks. Shapiro denied the request but maintained his belief in supporting her candidacy, even in areas such as Dearborn, Michigan, with its substantial Arab American community.
- Shapiro and Harris have known each other for 20 years.
- Their professional relationship became strained during the vetting process.
- Harris ultimately selected Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her running mate.
Public Following and Reactions
After Harris’ nomination, a senior aide refrained from directly addressing whether she identified as a Zionist. Deborah Lipstadt, a former US envoy combating antisemitism, expressed her concerns about the vetting questions presented to Shapiro, calling them emblematic of antisemitism. Similarly, Aaron Keyak, former deputy special envoy, condemned the inquiries as antisemitic in nature.
The fallout from the vetting has lasting implications for both figures as they prepare for potential presidential runs in 2028. Shapiro’s memoir details this complicated narrative, reflecting on the intricate relationship dynamics between him and Harris amid a backdrop of political and social tensions.
This article serves to outline the comments and incidents surrounding Shapiro’s experience with Harris’ vetting team for the 2024 election, underscoring broader issues related to antisemitism and political affiliations.
