US House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) on Tuesday claimed that Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro was “overlooked” for the role of Vice President Kamala Harris’ running mate due to his Jewish heritage.
In an interview with The Hill, Johnson asserted that Shapiro, who was among the final contenders, “would have been a stronger choice” for Harris. “It’s evident that a major factor in the decision was reluctance to select a vice presidential nominee with Jewish heritage, especially given the internal divisions within the Democratic Party,” Johnson stated. He highlighted what he perceives as a split within the party between pro-Palestinian and pro-Hamas factions.
“Unfortunately for Josh Shapiro, his heritage appears to have played a significant role in his exclusion,” Johnson continued.
While Johnson dismissed suggestions of antisemitism, he maintained that Shapiro’s Jewish background was a “major factor” influencing the selection process.
