Republican vice presidential nominee JD Vance responded publicly for the first time to Vice President Kamala Harris’ choice of Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as her running mate. Vance criticized the decision, stating that it “highlights how radical Kamala Harris is.”
During a press briefing aboard his plane in Philadelphia, Vance suggested that Harris had listened to the more progressive faction of her party in selecting Walz. The Trump campaign insinuated that by not choosing Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, Harris succumbed to the views of Democratic Party members who strongly oppose Israel’s actions in Gaza. Shapiro, who is Jewish, has been vocal about his criticisms of certain anti-Israel demonstrations.
Vance expressed his disapproval of the decision, stating, “It’s not what I believe, it’s what the Democratic leadership has said — that many people repeatedly mentioned concerns about antisemitism as the reason for Harris not selecting Josh Shapiro. I think it’s despicable. I think it’s disgusting.”
Upon learning of Walz’s selection, Vance reached out to him by leaving a voicemail. He mentioned, “I didn’t get him, but I just said, ‘Look, congratulations, look forward to a robust conversation, and enjoy the ride.’ And maybe he’ll call me back, maybe he won’t.”
