Overview
- Shapiro formally entered the 2026 race Thursday with rallies in Pittsburgh and Philadelphia after releasing a launch video highlighting I‑95 repairs, bipartisan deals and tax cuts.
- His campaign says he starts the year with more than $30 million cash on hand after raising over $23 million in 2025, claiming a Pennsylvania off‑year record for a gubernatorial campaign.
- Republican state Sen. Doug Mastriano said Wednesday he will not run and will remain in the Senate, easing the path for Treasurer Stacy Garrity, who holds the state GOP endorsement.
- Mastriano declined to endorse Garrity in his announcement, a notable sign of unresolved friction between the party establishment and his grassroots following reported by outlets.
- Garrity, a two‑time statewide winner, has attacked Shapiro’s priorities and state rankings as she prepares a likely challenge, while public polling shows the governor with strong approval.