The vetting process used by former Vice President Kamala Harris’ team to select a running mate in 2024 drew sharp criticism from Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, who said interviewers made offensive and disrespectful remarks about his wife and questioned his loyalty to the United States.
During a Sunday interview with CBS anchor Norah O’Donnell, Shapiro discussed details from his upcoming book, Where We Keep the Light, describing moments during the vetting process that caused serious concern. O’Donnell referenced a passage in which Shapiro recalled being told his wife would need “new clothes” and would have to pay for “hair and makeup” if he joined the ticket.
“Look, there were a number of moments in that process where I was asked things or, in the case of what you just said, I thought folks weren’t particularly respectful to my wife,” Shapiro said, adding that it made him question whether he wanted the role.
Shapiro said the process went beyond standard background checks. He disclosed that he was asked whether he had ever been an “agent of the Israeli government,” a question he said crossed a line. “I thought asking me if I was a double agent for the Israeli government, was offensive,” he told O’Donnell.
He explained that the question struck deeply due to his public faith and record of public service. “I have dedicated my entire adult life to serving this country,” Shapiro said. “For someone to question my loyalty… was offensive to me.”
Shapiro said he understood staff members were doing their jobs but noted that when he attempted to withdraw from consideration, Harris’ staff prevented direct communication. He also said he does not know whether Harris was aware of the specific questions asked.
