UPDATE: The Pennsylvania Republican Party has officially endorsed Stacy Garrity for the 2026 governor race during a crucial state committee meeting in State College over the weekend. This move marks a significant step in the political landscape as Garrity, the only candidate nominated on the floor, received overwhelming support from party members.
In her acceptance speech, Garrity emphasized her commitment to Pennsylvania, stating, “While Josh Shapiro has taken more of your money, my office has returned more than $1 billion to its rightful owners.” She criticized Shapiro’s administration on various issues, asserting, “He seeks to take more from you, while I am running for governor to give back.” This declaration sets the stage for a fierce battle against the incumbent Democratic governor, who has been labeled as prioritizing his own interests over the citizens of Pennsylvania.
Garrity’s campaign is being launched under the banner “Help is on the Way Tour,” where she plans to visit five counties that Shapiro previously won in 2022. This strategy aims to reclaim support in regions critical for the upcoming election. “My message to families all across our great commonwealth: help is on the way,” she declared, positioning herself as a champion for taxpayers and small businesses.
However, the endorsement has ignited controversy, with Pennsylvania Democratic Party Chair Eugene DePasquale branding Garrity as untrustworthy. “Stacy Garrity has sold out Pennsylvanians every chance she’s gotten,” he asserted, highlighting her past support for President Donald Trump and his policies, which critics argue undermine health care and job security.
Garrity, who previously won her position as state treasurer in a narrow upset against Democratic incumbent Joe Torsella, faces challenges ahead. Although she has distanced herself from her past comments regarding the 2020 election and anti-abortion merchandise, the Democratic Party is quick to link her closely with Trump’s agenda. “If Stacy Garrity does become the GOP insiders’ pick for governor, they will be making a clear choice,” DePasquale warned, stressing the implications of her potential governorship.
The political climate intensifies as former gubernatorial candidate Doug Mastriano expresses discontent with the party’s early endorsement of Garrity. Mastriano, who lost to Shapiro by double digits in 2022, has hinted at a 2026 run, stating, “An endorsement of Garrity would not necessarily deter me from joining the race.” His vocal opposition adds another layer of complexity to the GOP primary landscape.
As the election approaches, Garrity’s campaign will likely face scrutiny over her policies and past statements. While she claims she is not using her gubernatorial bid as a “stepping stone” to higher office, the political stakes are high, with national implications as both parties gear up for battle.
The 2026 primary is set for May 19, and as Garrity embarks on her campaign tour, the Pennsylvania Republican Party is already strategizing for the upcoming race. “We think it’s a terrible idea to endorse early,” Mastriano stated, indicating potential fractures within the party.
In this rapidly evolving landscape, the endorsement of Garrity could reshape the dynamics of the 2026 election. With critical voter concerns about leadership and governance, the stakes could not be higher for both candidates as they prepare for a year of campaigning that will determine the future of Pennsylvania.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story as both parties prepare for a showdown in the upcoming election.
