Garity Launches Campaign Against Shapiro
Pennsylvania Treasurer Stacey Garity officially kicked off her campaign on Monday, aiming to challenge the re-election of Governor Josh Shapiro. Garity, who has served as treasurer for two terms and spent 30 years in the Army Reserve, released a video critiquing Shapiro’s tenure and emphasizing her goal to make Pennsylvania more affordable and appealing.
While Shapiro appears to have an edge going into the 2026 gubernatorial race—thanks to his fundraising abilities and generally favorable approval ratings—Garity’s entry into the race could make things more competitive in this crucial swing state.
“I promise you and your family I will work diligently every day to address the problems created by Josh Shapiro,” Garity stated in her campaign announcement video.
I’m running to become the next governor of Pennsylvania. Would you like to join my team? https://t.co/bzamr5jbrs pic.twitter.com/x9ry75n5wj
– Stacey Garrit (@garrityforpa) August 18, 2025
Garity, who previously spent less than $3 million on her campaigns for state treasurer in 2020 and 2024, has been successful in both elections, consistently outperforming even former President Donald Trump in the state.
Despite the challenges in her path, including the fact that Biden carried Pennsylvania in 2020, Garity managed to secure a significant amount of votes in her reelection, surpassing Trump’s winning margin by about 4.5 points.
Though she is now the only declared Republican candidate in the race for governor, Garity could still face a competitive primary. Republican Senator Doug Mastriano, who previously lost a bid against Shapiro, has hinted at a possible run.
Interestingly, Trump hasn’t yet thrown his support behind any candidate in this key contest. Notably, Garity’s campaign video showcases her alignment with Trump’s agenda, featuring images of her with the former president.
Garity’s military experience, which includes three tours in Iraq and recognition with multiple awards, forms an essential part of her narrative. She stated, “I’ve faced many challenges throughout my life, and that’s why I can succeed even when the odds are against me.”
Shapiro, meanwhile, is rumored to be eyeing a presidential run in 2028, especially after being mentioned as a potential running mate for Kamala Harris. As Garity positions herself against him, she has criticized Shapiro’s handling of Pennsylvania’s pressing issues, suggesting he has overlooked them while focusing on fundraising efforts in blue states.
“To truly understand how poorly Josh Shapiro has performed, just look at the facts,” Garity asserted in her campaign announcement video.
A spokesperson for Shapiro did not respond to a request for comment promptly.
