Walz was also asked about foreign ties during Harris vetting, sources tell CNN

CNN • January 19, 2026 • general

Key Points:

Both Josh Shapiro and Tim Walz, finalists for Kamala Harris' running mate, were asked if they had ever been agents of foreign governments during vetting, with Shapiro questioned about Israel and Walz about China.
Shapiro found the question offensive and perceived it as rooted in antisemitism, a sentiment echoed by prominent Jewish leaders who called the questioning "classic antisemitism."
Harris' vetting team defended the line of questioning as standard procedure for high-level appointees, emphasizing the need to address potentially uncomfortable topics for transparency.
The revelation has intensified tensions between Harris and Shapiro, who may both pursue 2028 presidential runs, and has sparked debate about the boundaries between legitimate vetting and discriminatory