Erin McClelland, a Democrat running for statewide office in Pennsylvania, has made critical remarks about a potential Vice President pick for Kamala Harris, just as his political profile is rising. In a tweet on Tuesday night, McClelland accused Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro of sexism and covering up sexual harassment. She suggested that Shapiro’s ego might prevent him from effectively serving as Harris’s vice president.
McClelland endorsed North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper as a preferable VP choice, citing qualities she believes are essential: someone who is secure in a secondary role, who won’t undermine the president, and who handles issues of sexual harassment properly. She also emphasized the need for a VP who can connect with rural voters.
Her criticism was based on a reported incident involving Shapiro’s office last year. The Philadelphia Inquirer detailed a scandal where a woman accused Mike Vereb, Shapiro’s legislative liaison, of sexual harassment. Shapiro’s office reportedly settled the matter with a $295,000 payout, and Vereb, a longtime Shapiro associate, did not resign immediately despite the complaint.
McClelland explained her concerns to the Post, expressing that a VP candidate should be comfortable in a secondary role under a woman and handle such issues with integrity. She also noted that her remarks contrast sharply with other Pennsylvania Democrats who support Shapiro for the VP role and have caused friction within the state party.
Despite her criticisms, McClelland stated that she would support Harris regardless of who is chosen as VP. Her stance reflects a complex position, balancing her concerns with ongoing support for the party’s presidential ticket.
