Pennsylvania Governor, Josh Shapiro, is gaining momentum as a potential running mate for Vice President Kamala Harris in the upcoming 2024 presidential election, with his chances escalating significantly in recent days, according to fresh insights.
Polymarket, the leading prediction market for global events, reports that Shapiro’s likelihood has risen to 42%, doubling over the past weekend.
This surge in Shapiro’s potential comes at a crucial moment for the Democratic Party. Following President Joe Biden’s exit from the race and subsequent endorsement of Harris, there is intense speculation surrounding her VP choice as the Democratic National Convention looms on August 19 in Chicago.
Recent reports suggest that Harris has narrowed down her list to three candidates: Shapiro, Arizona Senator Mark Kelly, and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz. Shapiro currently holds the lead with 42%, followed by Kelly at 30% and Walz at 15%, according to Polymarket.
Shapiro, aged 51, assumed office as Pennsylvania’s governor in January 2023, but his political journey in the state dates back nearly two decades, with experience as the state’s attorney general, service in the state’s House of Representatives, and on the Montgomery County Board of Commissioners.
Despite his growing prospects, Shapiro’s potential nomination hasn’t been devoid of controversy. Public education advocacy groups have raised concerns over his support for private school vouchers, a contentious issue dividing opinions between Republicans and Democrats on public education funding.
Shapiro’s stance on education has shown variance, initially backing a voucher program but later vetoing it. In July, he signed a state budget with a substantial increase for public schools, indicating a dedication to public education funding.
As speculations mount around Harris’ choice, other rumored candidates for VP include governors such as Andy Beshear of Kentucky, Roy Cooper of North Carolina, J.B. Pritzker of Illinois, Gretchen Whitmer of Michigan, Gavin Newsom of California, and U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg.
For Shapiro, this growing attention presents both opportunities and challenges. His governance will face scrutiny, and his ability to connect with a national audience will be tested, especially given Pennsylvania’s status as a crucial swing state.
