Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro − who was evacuated safely along with his family after his home was set on fire − was a top contender to join former Vice President Kamala Harris on the Democratic ticket last year before she chose Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz.
Police say an arsonist caused a “significant amount of damage” to the home April 13. Authorities are searching for the person or people responsible and offering a $10,000 reward for information that would lead to an arrest and conviction. Police have not released any information about a possible motive.
“While the investigation is ongoing, the State Police is prepared to say at this time that this was an act of arson,” the agency said.
Who is Josh Shapiro?
Shapiro, 51, a Democrat, is currently serving his first term as the Keystone State’s governor after winning election in 2022. His current term will end in 2027.
Shapiro is known nationally for his support of Israel and pushing back against President Donald Trump. He is popular among his electorate and recognized for his public speaking.
Like Harris, Shapiro is a former state attorney general. He also served in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives and on the Montgomery County Board of Commissioners as chairman before running for governor.
More: Police search for arsonist after overnight fire at Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro’s home
Where does Josh Shapiro live?
Shapiro currently lives in the governor’s residence in Harrisburg, PA.
Although he was born in Kansas City, MO, Shapiro was raised in Montgomery County, PA.
Is Josh Shapiro married?
Shapiro is married to Lori Shapiro. She worked under the Clinton administration as an analyst in the Office of Science and Technology Policy and liaison to the President’s Information Technology Advisory Committee.
The pair has been married since 1997. Together, they have four children: Reuben, Sophia, Max and Jonah.
Is Josh Shapiro religious?
The Pennsylvania governor has long been open about his Jewish identity and faith. He is the third Jewish governor in the state’s history.
Hours before the fire, the governor posted a photo of his family’s Passover Seder table to social media, writing, “From the Shapiro family’s Seder table to yours, happy Chag Pesach Sameach!”
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