President Joe Biden dropping out of the 2024 election sent shockwaves through the United States still dealing with the attempted assassination of Republican candidate Donald Trump. Now, Democrats are scrambling to piece together a short, strong push as November is only a few months away. Kamala Harris being chosen as the DNC’s candidate is all but certain; however, who will she run with as her Vice President? Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro is a highly-targeted candidate. Let’s look at his military service, his contributions, and how he may help shape policy moving forward.
Josh Shapiro Is Not a Veteran
Josh Shapiro has plenty of experience working in the legal world and as a politician. However, he has not served in the American Armed Forces. Therefore, he isn’t a Veteran.
With that said, Shapiro has been a part of the politics involving America’s fiercest rivals and enemies. He has helped organize foreign affairs tours in Asia, the Middle East, and North Korea.
Additionally, from 2005 until 2012, Josh Shapiro helped shape military policies as a part of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives.
The Shapiro Administration and the Military Community
There have been plenty of positive moves by the Shapiro Administration providing military families with funding to help the community.
The Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA) Veterans’ Trust Fund (VTF) received $800,000 for a number of projects that are the state funding portion of an overarching project providing over $3.5 million to Vet programs.
How the funding is being used is a mix of helping create new programs and expanding existing programs.
Furthermore, funds are going to official Veteran Service Organizations with 501(c)(19) status and non-profit, 501(c)(3), charitable organizations specifically aiming to help Veterans in Pennsylvania.
The funds for VSO and non-profits will help Veterans with mental health resources, and legal help, and provide resources for food/housing insecurity.
Furthermore, while working as an Attorney General, Josh Shapiro helped bring justice and recognition to a man who allegedly violated the Stolen Valor Act by misrepresenting his military service.
Shapiro called the actions “disgraceful.” He emphasized the importance of holding those who steal valor accountable “to protect the honors our Veterans have earned.”
How Josh Shapiro Might Affect Military Policy as Vice President
President Joe Biden had the idea of moving the Air National Guard into the U.S. Space Force (USSF); however, he faced opposition from many on the move, including Josh Shapiro.
It’s not certain but if Shapiro were to become Vice President, it’s safe to say that barring a drastic change, this would be a continued policy while holding the position.
Additionally, Shapiro has been praised and criticized on his stance involving the ongoing war involving Israel and Palestine.
Proudly practicing his Jewish faith, Shapiro has maintained pro-Israel rhetoric and support. This could point to his stances on how the United States should continue to handle the manner.
Josh Shapiro hasn’t served in the military, though neither have many others. His experience and policies don’t appear to have many major implications for the military community that differ from what we are seeing with President Biden.
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