Why Philly DA Larry Krasner keeps picking political fights
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Philadelphia's progressive District Attorney Larry Krasner is slamming Gov. Josh Shapiro, calling him a "wimp" and accusing the governor of not doing enough to confront the Trump administration's immigration crackdowns.
Why it matters: Krasner has long styled himself as a counterweight to Trump and a leader in Philadelphia's resistance politics — a role that's put him at odds with more moderate Democrats.
State of play: The clash comes as Shapiro prepares for a likely gubernatorial matchup with Republican Treasurer Stacy Garrity and amid growing speculation about a potential 2028 presidential run.
The big picture: Krasner, who was elected to a historic third term last year, has emerged as one of President Trump's most outspoken critics in Philadelphia, referring to himself as a "democracy advocate."
- He has hosted town halls decrying federal overreach, helped launch a coalition of progressive prosecutors committed to charging federal agents who violate state law, and appeared alongside city lawmakers pushing legislation to strengthen the city's sanctuary policies.
- Krasner has also compared the Trump administration to fascists and described ICE agents as "wannabe Nazis."
Yes, but: His confrontational style has drawn backlash from Trump officials and members of his own party, including Shapiro and Sen. John Fetterman, who has called Krasner's comments "gross."
The latest: In a recent Fox News interview, Shapiro called Krasner's remarks about ICE agents "unacceptable" and "abhorrent."
What they're saying: "We need to bring down the rhetoric, bring down the temperature and create calm in the community," Shapiro said.
- Citing fatal shootings involving immigration agents in Minneapolis, Krasner responded that Shapiro isn't "meeting the moment" and labeled Fetterman Trump's "favorite Democratic senator."
- "The moment requires that we call a subgroup of people within federal law enforcement … what they are," Krasner told the Inquirer. "Just say it. Don't be a wimp."
What we're watching: Why Krasner keeps picking fights with political heavyweights.
- His reach on national policy is limited, but his visibility isn't — fueling speculation about whether he may have higher political ambitions.
"Maybe he's tired of being DA," political analyst Jay McCalla tells Axios.