Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro has revealed that during Kamala Harris’s 2024 vice-presidential vetting process, a senior aide asked him if he had ever been an agent of the Israeli government, a question he found deeply offensive. This disclosure, detailed in his forthcoming memoir, underscores the tensions Shapiro faced as a Jewish politician in a party grappling with issues of identity and foreign policy.
In his book, “Where We Keep the Light,” Shapiro writes that the inquiry came from Dana Remus, a former White House counsel who was part of Harris’s vetting team. Remus posed the question during a phone call, asking, “Have you ever been an agent of the Israeli government?” and followed up by asking if he had communicated with undercover Israeli agents. Shapiro, an observant Jew and a Zionist, responded that the question was offensive, and he expressed frustration at what he perceived as unnecessary suspicion.
The vetting occurred against the backdrop of heightened sensitivity over Israel following Hamas’s October 2023 attack and Israel’s military response. Shapiro had been vocal in condemning some campus protests that he viewed as antisemitic, which led to criticism from some on the left who dubbed him “Genocide Josh.” His background, including volunteer work on an Israeli kibbutz and a brief role at the Israeli Embassy, likely prompted the vetting team’s focused questions.
Shapiro’s subsequent meeting with Harris at the Naval Observatory was marked by further tension. He recounts that Harris asked if he would apologize for his comments on protests at the University of Pennsylvania, to which he firmly refused. He also discussed the role of vice president with Harris, expressing a desire for a collaborative partnership, but Harris described the position as lacking autonomy and authority, which left Shapiro concerned about the dynamics of such a role.
Feeling uneasy about the process, Shapiro decided to withdraw from consideration. Harris ultimately selected Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her running mate, and the ticket lost the election, with Pennsylvania—a critical swing state—narrowly going to Donald Trump. Many Democrats have since questioned the strategic wisdom of bypassing Shapiro, given his electoral appeal in Pennsylvania.
Shapiro’s account, reported by outlets such as CNN and The Atlantic, highlights the internal fissures within the Democratic Party as it seeks to rebuild after the 2024 loss. His memoir positions him as a moderate consensus-builder, contrasting with more progressive elements, and sets the stage for a potential 2028 presidential bid. By sharing his side of the story, Shapiro aims to address criticisms and outline his vision for the party’s future.
The revelations come as Democrats reflect on their electoral strategies and prepare for upcoming races. With several potential candidates, including Shapiro, Harris, and Pete Buttigieg, eyeing the presidency, the vetting process saga serves as a reminder of the challenges in balancing diverse perspectives and managing internal conflicts. Shapiro’s spokesperson has downplayed the political aspects, emphasizing the book’s personal nature, but the detailed narrative ensures ongoing discussion.
As the 2028 election cycle approaches, Shapiro’s experiences may influence how candidates navigate vetting and public scrutiny, particularly on issues related to identity and loyalty. The episode underscores the importance of transparency and trust in political partnerships, lessons that will resonate as the party moves forward.
