The math adds up for Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro as a formidable vice-presidential choice for Kamala Harris, according to political commentator Van Jones and former Republican Rep. Charlie Dent.
Appearing on “The Situation Room,” Van Jones emphasized, “The math is the math is the math.” He noted that while Harris is performing “reasonably well” in Michigan and Wisconsin, “she’s still struggling in Pennsylvania.” “That is a very important consideration,” Jones said, highlighting the significance of Pennsylvania in the upcoming election.
While Democrats may be “swooning” over other surging politicians, Jones pointed out that there’s a hope within the Harris camp that a running mate like Senator Mark Kelly of Arizona could help expand their appeal in the Sun Belt, potentially picking up states such as Georgia, Nevada, or Arizona. However, he argued, “the most logical pathway for her is still those ‘Blue Wall’ states.”
“And the brick in that wall that’s the flimsiest, that’s the least secure, is Pennsylvania. And she’s got a great governor sitting there looking at her right at the top of that state,” Jones concluded.
This endorsement underscores the strategic importance of Pennsylvania and the potential benefits of selecting a running mate with strong ties to the state. Shapiro’s record and political stature could provide Harris with the boost needed to secure a critical swing state, reinforcing her campaign’s strength in the traditionally Democratic “Blue Wall” states.