Pennsylvania GOP Endorses Stacy Garrity for 2026 Governor Race

Stacy Garrity, Pennsylvania's State Treasurer and a retired Army Reserve colonel, has received the official endorsement of the Pennsylvania Republican Party as their candidate for the 2026 gubernatorial race, aiming to challenge Democratic Governor Josh Shapiro. The endorsement, confirmed at the party's fall meeting, underscores Garrity's campaign focus on fiscal responsibility, public safety, and economic growth, with Garrity emphasizing her role as a watchdog for taxpayer dollars. Her campaign marks a potential historic milestone as she could become Pennsylvania's first female governor and the first with military experience since Tom Corbett. Despite some dissent within GOP ranks, including criticism from former gubernatorial nominee Doug Mastriano, Garrity has secured support from key party figures, including former Governor Tom Corbett who praised her leadership. The Pennsylvania Democratic Party has strongly opposed Garrity's candidacy, criticizing her record on healthcare, abortion, and election integrity issues. The 2026 election is set against a backdrop of heightened political tension, including recent attacks on political figures and contrasting narratives from both parties regarding political violence and rhetoric.