Shapiro VP rumors swirl after Biden drops out

(The Center Square) – Rumors swirled Monday that Vice President Kamala Harris may select Pennsylvania’s governor as her running mate.

The news comes as Gov. Josh Shapiro himself encouraged Pennsylvania Democrats to unite behind her, just hours after President Joe Biden stepped down from his campaign.

"I’ve known Kamala Harris for nearly two decades – we’ve both been prosecutors, we’ve both stood up for the rule of law, we’ve both fought for the people and delivered results,” he said. “Kamala Harris is a patriot worthy of our support and she will continue the work of generations of Americans who came before us to perfect our union, protect our democracy, and advance real freedom.”

He went on to say she’s served the country honorably and is “ready to be president.”

"The best path forward for the Democratic Party is to quickly unite behind Vice President Harris and refocus on winning the presidency,” he said. “The contrast in this race could not be clearer and the road to victory in November runs right through Pennsylvania – where this collective work began. I will do everything I can to help elect Kamala Harris as the 47th President of the United States."

The Center Square was unsuccessful getting comment from the governor’s office prior to publication.

Multiple reports, however, put Shapiro on a short list to join Harris on the campaign trail. The first-term governor could help swing Pennsylvania blue, analysts say.

Pennsylvania Democratic Party Chairman Sharif Street, a state senator from Philadelphia, declined to answer direct questions about the rumors, but did say his vote was for “the hometown kid” during a Sunday evening news conference.

“But I really do believe we have to let Kamala Harris make that decision,” he said.

Street also said he’s confident the state’s delegates will formally endorse Harris in the coming days. He also believes her support extends nationwide.

“I’ve talked to state chairs across America and I’ve seen nothing but overwhelming support for the vice president and I fully expect in a very resounding way she will be our nominee,” he said.