Posts falsely claim Josh Shapiro skipped the Democratic convention

"Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro isn't attending the DNC because organizers couldn't guarantee his safety since he's Jewish. Some of the DNC organizers also felt like letting him speak would inflame the pro HAMAS crowds at the DNC," says an August 19 X post, shared by Laura Loomer, whom AFP has previously fact-checked for spreading disinformation.

Similar posts circulated elsewhere on X and other platforms including Facebook and Threads, as Democrats gather for the four-day event. 

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Screenshot of an X post taken August 21, 2024

President Joe Biden's sustained support for Israel over the war in Gaza sparked by an attack by Hamas militants on October 7 remains a divisive issue for the Democratic Party. Pro-Palestinian protestors have been present outside the DNC and briefly breached the outer security fence surrounding the United Center, on the night of Biden's address.

Delegates from the pro-Palestinian "Uncommitted Movement" who spoke with AFP at the convention said they remain cautious over Vice President Kamala Harris's ascension to the top of the ticket.

Shapiro was a strong contender during Harris' search for a vice-presidential running mate. However, she chose Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, a decision for which Shapiro has voiced his support.

Shapiro, who is Jewish, told reporters that anti-Semitism played "no role" in Harris' decision despite allegations made by former president Donald Trump.

Shapiro is popular in the important swing state Pennsylvania, but his support for Israel and handling of pro-Palestinian protests has sparked criticism from the left. 

The Pennsylvanian governor spoke on several occasions during the convention, during which Harris was to formally accept the role of Democratic presidential nominee.

Shapiro addressed Pennsylvania's presidential delegation breakfast on August 19 (archived here), day one of the DNC, multiple news outlets reported. Shapiro also spoke at the convention's Labor Council meeting that same day, which was live-streamed (archived here).

AFP photographer Charly Triballeau photographed the governor attending the second day of the DNC at the United Center, on August 20, 2024. That evening, Shapiro led the Pennsylvania delegation in the ceremonial roll call vote for Harris (archived).

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Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro (C) attends the second day of the Democratic National Convention at the United Center in Chicago, Illinois, on August 20, 2024 (AFP / CHARLY TRIBALLEAU)

On August 21, night 3 of the convention, he gave a formal address.

His speech was broadcast and reported on by dozens of news outlets, and Shapiro shared a video of the speech on X (archived here).

AFP has debunked other misinformation about US politics here.