Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro has abruptly canceled several fundraising appearances in the Hamptons just days before Vice President Kamala Harris is set to announce her running mate.

Shapiro's sudden change in plans has sparked speculation about his potential candidacy for the vice-presidential role amid scrutiny over his handling of a sexual harassment case involving a former cabinet secretary, as Fox News reports.

Shapiro had planned to attend three fundraising events in the Hamptons over the weekend. His appearances, including a "summer soiree" hosted by The Next 50, had been scheduled several weeks in advance.

However, the governor's office announced the cancellations without providing a specific reason. Shapiro's spokesman, Manuel Bonder, said, "The governor’s trip was planned several weeks ago and included several fund-raisers for his own campaign committee. His schedule has changed, and he is no longer traveling to the Hamptons this weekend."

Upcoming VP Announcement Adds to Speculation

The cancellations come just days before Harris is expected to reveal her running mate at a rally in Philadelphia. Shapiro, 51, is considered a front-runner for the position. His sudden change in plans has fueled speculation about his potential role in the upcoming election.

Adding to the scrutiny, however, is Shapiro's handling of a sexual harassment case involving former cabinet secretary Mike Vereb. Vereb faced allegations of sexual harassment while serving in Shapiro's office and stepped down in September 2023 after a settlement of $295,000 was reached with an employee who brought the claims.

Criticism from the National Women's Defense League

The National Women’s Defense League (NWDL) has been vocal in urging Vice President Harris to reconsider Shapiro as a running mate due to his handling of the case.

NWDL Director Emma Davidson Tribbs criticized Shapiro’s office, stating, "Governor Shapiro’s office should have done a better job preventing sexual harassment happening in his own office by former cabinet secretary Mike Vereb, including protecting the survivor who bravely came forward, ensuring that any other potential survivors felt safe in speaking up, and ensuring the harasser didn’t have the opportunity to do further harm after the complaint."

Tribbs further emphasized, "As the Harris Campaign and the Democratic Party consider their options for Vice Presidential candidates, we urge them to consider the handling of past complaints of sexual harassment inside the Pennsylvania Governor’s office. The American people deserve to know that, if called to a higher office, Governor Shapiro will do more to ensure the safety and dignity of employees, volunteers and constituents in his office."

Shapiro's Office Responds to Allegations

In response to the criticisms, Shapiro’s spokesman, Manuel Bonder, highlighted the measures in place for handling such complaints.

"Although the Commonwealth does not comment on specific personnel matters, it takes allegations of discrimination and harassment seriously. Robust procedures are in place for thoroughly investigating reports of discrimination and harassment -- and these procedures are implemented whenever complaints of discrimination or harassment are made and provide detailed guidance to help ensure that allegations are promptly and fully investigated and that employees feel comfortable to report misconduct."

The handling of the sexual harassment case remains a significant point of contention as Shapiro's potential vice-presidential candidacy is considered. The scrutiny over this issue may impact his prospects as Harris's running mate.

Fundraisers and Political Implications

The canceled fundraisers were initially planned to boost Shapiro’s campaign committee.

The events, including the high-profile "summer soiree," were expected to draw significant attention and support for his political ambitions.

Shapiro's absence from these events raises questions about the reasons behind the cancellations.

While no specific explanation has been provided, the timing suggests a possible connection to the upcoming VP announcement and the controversies surrounding his office.

Conclusion

Gov. Josh Shapiro’s abrupt cancellation of weekend fundraising events in the Hamptons comes amid speculation about his potential candidacy for vice president alongside Kamala Harris.

The scrutiny over his handling of a sexual harassment case involving former cabinet secretary Mike Vereb has added a layer of complexity to his political future.

As Harris prepares to announce her running mate, Shapiro's actions and past decisions are under close examination. The unfolding events will likely have significant implications for his career and the upcoming election.