Activists Oppose Shapiro for VP Pick

A coalition of education justice groups is urging Vice President Kamala Harris to reconsider Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro as a potential running mate for the 2024 presidential election. In an open letter, over two dozen organizations criticized Shapiro's past support for school vouchers, which they argue aligns with far-right education privatization efforts, including those outlined in Project 2025, a plan that seeks to dismantle the Department of Education and civil rights protections for public school students. Shapiro's endorsement of a Republican-backed school voucher proposal last summer, which aimed to allocate $100 million in taxpayer funds for students in low-performing districts to attend private schools, has drawn significant backlash from education activists and teachers' unions. Although Shapiro later stated he would only support such measures if they did not detract from public school funding, critics remain unconvinced, citing the detrimental effects of similar voucher systems in states like Florida. As Harris's team narrows down vice presidential candidates, Shapiro remains a leading contender alongside Arizona Senator Mark Kelly. The decision is expected soon, with Harris planning a campaign rally in Philadelphia shortly after the announcement. Speculation surrounds Shapiro's candidacy, particularly given his proximity to Philadelphia, a key battleground in the upcoming election. Other candidates still in the mix include North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper, Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, and Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear, as Harris prepares to finalize her choice for a running mate.