Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro (D) has defended his support for Israel as the Iran war escalates and speculation increases about a potential 2028 presidential run. Recent interviews with progressive podcast hosts have highlighted the issue, which has become more difficult for Democrats due to declining support for the country and a deepening divide over foreign policy. Shapiro argued that there is still room in his party for a more nuanced approach and that Democratic voters have an appetite for a centrist leader with a centrist view on Israel. He also dismissed claims that Israel is an apartheid state, while also criticizing Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and President Trump's handling of the war in Iran. Recent polling shows that support among Democrats has dropped significantly in the last few years, with 64 percent of Democrats holding favorable views of Israel in 2022 compared to 34 percent today.