Gov. Josh Shapiro Slams Trump’s Antisemitism Claims: ‘He Has No Moral Clarity’
Mark Makela / MCT
Former President Donald Trump recently attempted to paint Vice President Kamala Harris as antisemitic, claiming that Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro was overlooked as the Democratic presidential running mate solely because he is Jewish. However, in an interview with CNN’s Kaitlan Collins during the first night of the Democratic National Convention, Shapiro forcefully rejected Trump’s assertions and criticized the former president for using him as a political pawn.
“Trump claims that antisemitism played a role in you not ultimately being selected as the vice president,” Collins asked Shapiro. “What’s your response to that?” “Donald Trump has absolutely no credibility to speak on that issue,” Shapiro responded. “He is a person who’s acted bigoted, he is a person who spreads hate, and he is a person who routinely divides people in this country.
Listen, when folks marched in Charlottesville, and quite literally said with Tiki torches in their hand, ‘Jews will not replace us,’ what did Donald Trump say? He said, there are good people on both sides.” Shapiro was unequivocal in his rejection of Trump’s claim, making it clear that antisemitism played no part in his discussions with Harris. “I want to be crystal clear about something: antisemitism played absolutely no role in the dialogue I had with the vice president,” Shapiro stated.
He acknowledged the existence of antisemitism in America, including among some fringe elements within the Democratic Party, but emphasized the importance of combating all forms of hatred. “We need to stand up and speak out against hate in all forms. Antisemitism, Islamophobia, racism—any form of hatred and bigotry has no place,” Shapiro continued. “And what I want to see from leaders is what Kamala Harris is doing, and what I try and do every day: speaking and acting with moral clarity. Something that Donald Trump is bankrupt on.”
Shapiro didn’t hold back in his critique of Trump’s character, stating, “He has no moral clarity, and he has absolutely no business opining on this issue, given his track record.” Shapiro had been considered one of the top finalists to be Harris’ running mate, with many political strategists believing his popularity in the swing state of Pennsylvania could have been a significant asset.
However, Harris ultimately chose Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, reportedly due to his charisma and concerns that Shapiro’s political presence might overshadow her. In his remarks, Shapiro not only dismissed Trump’s allegations but also underscored the importance of leadership grounded in moral integrity—something he believes Trump lacks entirely.
