Josh Shapiro claims Donald Trump's promises 'isn’t freedom at all' in fiery DNC speech

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS: Josh Shapiro took center stage at the Democratic National Convention (DNC) in Chicago on Wednesday, August 21.

The Pennsylvania governor, 51, offered a powerful endorsement of Vice President Kamala Harris, who recently secured the Democratic nomination following President Joe Biden's withdrawal from the race in July.

Shapiro's speech was particularly notable as he sought to redefine the concept of "freedom" in a manner that directly challenged Republican narratives.

Redefining 'freedom' and championing Democratic principles

During his speech, Josh Shapiro reclaimed the idea of freedom, a concept that Republicans have traditionally wielded as a core element of their party identity. The GOP often touts freedom in the context of economic policies, gun rights, and limited government intervention.

However, Shapiro turned this narrative on its head, arguing that true freedom is about more than just economic autonomy or the right to bear arms—it also encompasses personal and civil liberties that Republicans have increasingly sought to curtail.

"While [former president Donald Trump] cloaks himself in the blanket of freedom, what he's offering isn't freedom at all," he said. "It's not freedom to tell our children what books they're allowed to read. It's not freedom to tell women what they can do with their bodies. And hear me on this. It sure as hell isn't freedom to say you can go vote but he gets to pick the winner. That's not freedom."

Shapiro's speech also served as a rallying cry for Democrats to unite around three core American principles: valuing freedom, cherishing democracy, and loving the country.

"Despite our challenges, hear me on this. I have never been more hopeful because I see in all of you the enduring promise of America," he said. "You all give me hope and you all have the power, so let's use that power. Let's do the hard work necessary to win this election and write the next chapter in our American story."

Shapiro also lauded 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 added.

Importance of Pennsylvania and Josh Shapiro's political future

Josh Shapiro's support for Vice President Kamala Harris could prove pivotal in Pennsylvania, a key battleground state that has been hotly contested in recent elections. The state, with its 19 Electoral College votes, played a critical role in both the 2016 and 2020 elections and is once again expected to be a decisive factor in 2024.

Having said that, Shapiro's influence in Pennsylvania could be instrumental in swaying voters in favor of Harris. He won the 2022 gubernatorial race by a sizeable margin of 15 points.

Polls suggest that Pennsylvania remains a toss-up in the upcoming election.

An Insider Advantage poll conducted from August 18 to August 19 among 800 likely voters showed Trump with a narrow one-point lead over Harris (47 percent to 46 percent). On the other hand, a Redfield & Wilton Strategies poll conducted among 825 likely voters from August 12 to August 15 found Harris leading by 2 points (46 percent to 44 percent).

Shapiro's speech at the DNC also served to elevate his own national profile. Though he was considered a potential running mate for Harris, she ultimately chose Minnesota Governor Tim Walz. Nonetheless, Shapiro's address arguably cemented his status as a rising star within the Democratic Party.

His charismatic public speaking style has drawn comparisons to former president Obama, and many see him as a potential presidential candidate in the 2028 or 2032 elections.

However, Shapiro's ascent has not been without controversy. He has faced criticism from some progressive Democrats over past remarks concerning Palestinians and pro-Palestinian protesters. And while Shapiro has expressed support for a two-state solution, his comments comparing college campus protesters to the Ku Klux Klan have faced backlash from the left, Newsweek reported.