Rep. Dean Phillips, D-Minn., recently expressed his belief that the American people are prepared to embrace a Jewish vice president as the Democratic Party's veepstakes unfolds. Phillips highlighted the discussions surrounding Vice President Kamala Harris' potential running mate and spoke positively about a Jewish candidate from Pennsylvania being considered.
Phillips conveyed surprise at the notion that breaking barriers might halt at individuals of the Jewish faith in today's society. An anchor, who is Jewish, is reportedly on Harris' shortlist for vice president. However, concerns have been raised by some pundits and reporters regarding the potential impact of his faith on voter perception. An anchor has been labeled a 'risky' choice due to his Jewish background, with former White House press secretary Ari Fleischer expressing skepticism about the Democratic Party nominating a Jewish candidate for vice president.
Phillips emphasized that Judaism is a faith and a religion, not an ethnicity or nationality, underscoring the need to move beyond such discussions. He acknowledged the presence of antisemitism across the political spectrum and urged a focus on unity as Americans.
Expressing his support for the Jewish candidate, Phillips praised him as a strong potential pick for Harris. He also highlighted the Jewish background of Harris' husband, second gentleman Doug Emhoff, as a point of relevance in the conversation.
