Pennsylvania Gov. Shapiro Cancels Hamptons Trip, Days Before Vice President Harris Is Unveiled

Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro canceled a trip to the glamorous New York City Hamptons Beach Landbecause he is being considered for Vice President Kamala Harris’ companion, according to a person with direct knowledge of the matter.

Shapiro is expected to attend at least two events in the Hamptons, including a meet and greet with wealthy sponsors at the home of public relations director Mike Kempner.

“The governor’s trip was planned weeks ago and included several fundraisers for his own campaign committee,” Shapiro spokesman Manuel Bonder confirmed to NBC News. “His schedule has changed and he will no longer be in the Hamptons this weekend.”

The meeting at Kempner’s home in Water Mill, New York, on Sunday was expected to be attended by more than 100 people, including people from the legal, sports and financial industries, the person said, speaking on condition of anonymity so they could speak freely about a private matter.

According to the invitation, Shapiro is also expected to attend a fundraiser in East Hampton on Saturday for a group called The Next 50.

Shapiro has emerged as a favorite among some Harris advisers in part because of his popularity in this must-win swing state. Shapiro’s approval rating is among the highest of any governor in the nation.

He is also widely seen as a moderate Democrat with a pro-business agenda and a desire to find common ground with Republicans.

Harris’ campaign announced that she and her running mate will begin a week of campaigning on Tuesday in Philadelphia.

This location further fueled speculation that Shapiro could have been that companion.