Kamala Harris Selects Tim Walz Over Josh Shapiro as Running Mate

A new book titled "2024: How Trump Retook the White House and the Democrats Lost America" reveals the behind-the-scenes process of Vice President Kamala Harris choosing Minnesota Governor Tim Walz over Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro and Arizona Senator Mark Kelly as her 2024 running mate. The decision was influenced by Harris's desire to appeal to rural and male voters, with advisors and Nancy Pelosi favoring Walz due to his electoral appeal and deferential demeanor, contrasted with Shapiro's perceived ambition and lack of chemistry with Harris. Despite speculation and accusations from some quarters, including President Donald Trump, that antisemitism affected Shapiro's rejection due to his Jewish faith and strong pro-Israel stance, the book and Shapiro himself deny this, attributing the choice to political chemistry and campaign strategy rather than faith or identity. Harris reportedly found a better personal rapport with Walz, and Shapiro's ambition and the perception that he was not suited to a number two role negatively impacted his chances. While some progressives considered Shapiro's comments on pro-Palestinian protests controversial, this was not a decisive factor in the selection. Overall, the selection process reflected a combination of strategic electoral considerations and personal dynamics rather than discriminatory motives.