According to a report [1] by Stephen M. Lepore on Dailymail.com, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro has found himself mired in a sexual harassment scandal, putting a damper on his position as a serious candidate for the Vice Presidency under Democratic nominee Kamala Harris.
As the election approaches, Harris seeks to scrutinize potential candidates for the VP spot, including several governors from swing states who could provide an advantage to her campaign. Among these governors, Shapiro is regarded as a prominent figure.
However, the controversy surrounding Shapiro erupted when Pennsylvania Democrat Erin McClelland accused him of a cover-up. McClelland, who is running for state treasurer, publicly endorsed North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper on Tuesday night, claiming that Harris’ ideal running mate should be someone who is more supportive rather than ignoring serious issues like sexual harassment.
I want a VP pick that’s secure enough to be second under a woman, is content to be VP & won’t undermine the President to maneuver his own election & doesn’t sweep sexual harassment under the rug. I want someone that can speak to rural voters. That is @RoyCooperNC [2]
— Erin McClelland (@ErinforPA) July 23, 2024 [3]
The accusations levied against Shapiro arose from a settlement [4] his office made with a female victim who accused his long-time ally, legislative liaison Mike Vereb, of sexual harassment back in 2023.
Shapiro’s questionable handling of the situation has caused disapproval from various political figures, including Senate President Pro Tempore Kim Ward and Sharif Street, chairman of the Pennsylvania Democratic Party.
Despite the scandal surrounding him, Shapiro remains firm with his support for Harris, emphasizing their shared history and commitment to the rule of law. Shapiro, who is often cited as a potential presidential candidate himself, has pledged to help Harris win, though it’s uncertain whether a VP spot under Harris remains a possibility for him.
Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro says President Trump is “afraid.”
Trump got sh*t by a man who donated to Democrats.
Trump stood up in defiance and said, “Fight! Fight! Fight!”pic.twitter.com/QBSE0AnHKi [5]
— Paul A. Szypula 🇺🇸 (@Bubblebathgirl) July 26, 2024 [6]