No. 23: Josh Shapiro: A rising Democratic heavyweight putting his Jewish identity front and center

Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, a rising Democratic figure, has increasingly emphasized his Jewish identity amidst his growing national profile. Shapiro, who maintains a kosher home and observes Shabbat, described his connection to Israel as formative. His Jewish identity faced scrutiny during Kamala Harris's 2024 vice-presidential vetting, where he was asked if he had ever been an agent of Israel, a question he called "offensive." Additionally, his residence was targeted in an arson attack in April 2025, hours after a Passover Seder, though his family escaped unharmed. Despite these challenges, Shapiro has publicly embraced his faith, telling a BBYO gathering he was proud to live his faith "out loud." He identifies as a Zionist, defending Israel's right to self-defense while also criticizing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and expressing concern for Palestinian civilians.