Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro (D) delivered a fiery speech at the Democratic National Convention on Wednesday, warning that former President Trump would take away the rights and freedoms of Americans if elected in November.
“While he cloaks himself in the blanket of freedom, what he’s offering isn’t freedom at all,” Shapiro said.
“Hear me on this, it’s not freedom to tell our children what books they’re allowed to read. And it’s not freedom to tell women what they can do with their bodies,” he said to applause.
“And hear me on this it sure as hell is not freedom to say ‘you can go vote but he gets to pick the winner.' That’s not freedom,” he said. “You know what Democrats? We are the party of real freedom.”
Shapiro praised Vice President Kamala Harris in his remarks, saying “she has spent her entire career making progress.”
“Will we be a nation defined by chaos or extremism? Or will we choose a path of decency, honor and continued progress,” the governor said.
Shapiro is one of Harris’s most high-profile surrogates going into the general election. The governor has received praise for his charismatic public speaking style, with many comparing him to former President Obama.
Harris’ vice presidential selection process came down to Shapiro and Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz. Shapiro faced pushback and criticism from the progressive wing of the party, citing his stance on the Israel Hamas War and his response to pro-Palestinian protests in Pennsylvania. While Harris ultimately picked Walz, Shapiro will be a valuable asset in must-win Pennsylvania.
Shapiro praised Walz ahead of his speech on Wednesday, saying Harris “made the exact right pick.”
