Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro took direct aim at Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth during a Sunday appearance on NBC’s ‘Meet the Press,’ dismissing the veteran as “like an eight-year-old playing with toy soldiers every day.” The sharp jab came as Shapiro, a rising Democratic star, faces growing scrutiny over his reluctance to challenge anti-Israel voices within his party.
Shapiro’s Hegseth Remarks Draw Backlash
Speaking to host Kristen Welker, Shapiro questioned Hegseth’s leadership, suggesting he has made America “less safe” and fueling speculation about potential congressional action. “If the Congress determines that the best approach is impeachment, then they’ll do that,” Shapiro said, noting apparent bipartisan frustration with the defense secretary. The remark quickly drew fire from conservatives who accused the governor of disrespecting a decorated military leader while avoiding tough stances within his own political ranks.
Silence on Party’s Anti-Israel Shift
Critics highlight Shapiro’s apparent reluctance to condemn prominent Democrats who have embraced harsh rhetoric against Israel, including NYC Comptroller Brad Lander’s accusations of “apartheid” and Colorado candidate Melat Kiros’ calls for an arms embargo. When pressed on MSNBC about the Democratic Party’s leftward shift on Israel, Shapiro avoided direct criticism, instead touting Pennsylvania’s “pragmatism.” His carefully neutral approach continued at the Democratic National Convention, where his speech conspicuously avoided any mention of Israel—a notable omission as the Biden administration faced criticism for delayed military aid.
Trump Weighs In
Former President Donald Trump amplified the criticism, posting on Truth Social that Shapiro “has done nothing for Israel, and never will.” The attack reflects broader Republican efforts to paint Shapiro as overly cautious in confronting his party’s growing anti-Israel faction, even as he courts national visibility ahead of a potential future White House bid.
The governor’s sharp words for Hegseth contrast with his muted responses to controversies involving Democratic colleagues, creating what critics call a revealing double standard. As tensions over Israel policy intensify within the Democratic Party, Shapiro’s balancing act—willing to spar with Republicans while sidestepping internal divisions—may face increasing scrutiny from both sides of the political aisle.
Source: www.dailywire.com — https://www.dailywire.com/news/josh-shapiro-smears-hegseth-as-eight-year-old-but-he-cowers-before-his-partys-anti-israel-mob