Gov. Josh Shapiro had a significant 2024, marked by his rise as a potential vice-presidential candidate, his campaign trail presence as a prominent Democratic surrogate, and his outspoken support for Israel. As the year concludes, his national profile continues to grow, with increasing attention on how he uses his Jewish faith to connect with voters. Shapiro, who has long emphasized his faith as central to his public identity, stands out in a political landscape shifting under President-elect Donald Trump, who promotes his own branded Bibles. The New York Times highlights Shapiro among a “small but prominent cast of Scripture-quoting, religiously observant Democratic politicians” poised for national prominence in the coming years.
Shapiro, alongside leaders like Sen. Raphael Warnock of Georgia and Texas state Rep. James Talarico, represents a new wave of Democratic politicians who openly discuss their religious beliefs to resonate with voters across spiritual lines. Despite the Democratic Party’s reputation for secularism, Shapiro believes faith is an essential part of understanding a leader’s motivations. “It is important for the community to understand, wherever you are, what motivates you,” Shapiro told the Times. A Pew study from April revealed that while the majority of atheists, agnostics, and unaffiliated voters lean Democratic, a significant portion of Protestants and Catholics favor Republicans. However, Black Protestants and Hispanic Catholics largely lean Democratic, with 84% and 60% respectively supporting the party.
These dynamics played out in the recent election, with most Black and Hispanic voters supporting Vice President Kamala Harris, though Trump made gains among these groups. While Trump presents himself as a defender of Christian ideology, often framing personal experiences in religious terms, the Democratic Party is grappling with ways to deepen its connection with religious voters.
Shapiro’s faith has also placed him at the center of political debates. Known for his outspoken criticism of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Shapiro remains a steadfast supporter of Israel, at times drawing sharp criticism and admiration for his strong rhetoric. His religious identity became a focal point during discussions about Harris’ running mate, with Republicans accusing the Democratic Party of antisemitism for selecting Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz over Shapiro. In response, Shapiro took to the stage during a rally at Temple University, celebrating his faith and quoting Jewish ethical teachings: “No one is required to complete the task, but neither are we free to refrain from it.”
Shapiro’s public embrace of his Jewish identity has drawn both praise and criticism. After delivering a prime-time speech at the Democratic National Convention, Trump called him a “highly overrated Jewish governor” who had “done nothing for Israel.” Shapiro dismissed the remarks as perpetuating antisemitic tropes, accusing Trump of being “obsessed” with him. Despite such challenges, Rabbi David Glanzberg-Krainin, Shapiro’s hometown rabbi, commended him for integrating his faith with his public service. “This is a foundational part of who he is,” the rabbi said, rejecting claims that Shapiro’s Jewish identity influenced his exclusion from the vice-presidential ticket.
Shapiro has extended his faith-based outreach beyond Pennsylvania, collaborating with leaders like Warnock, a Democratic senator and pastor from Georgia. During a visit to Warnock’s church, Shapiro introduced himself as a fellow person of faith, greeting the congregation with “Shabbat shalom.” The two leaders, seen as potential future presidential candidates, have campaigned together and discussed strengthening bonds between Jewish and Black communities. For Shapiro, his faith remains a guiding force as he navigates his political journey, blending personal beliefs with a commitment to public service.
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