State Treasurer Stacy Garrity could become the state's first female governor if she wins next year. Photo: Tom Williams/CQ-Roll Call via Getty
The Pennsylvania Republican Party tapped state Treasurer Stacy Garrity as their 2026 gubernatorial pick on Saturday.
Why it matters: Among Pennsylvania's most popular politicians and a President Trump backer, Garrity could prove a threat to Democratic Gov. Josh Shapiro next year and test the GOP's winning streak in the state.
State of play: Garrity, who announced her bid last month, entered the State Republican committee meeting in State College last weekend as the only gubernatorial candidate under consideration and clinched the endorsement in a near-unanimous vote.
What they're saying: "With your help, we'll make Pennsylvania a safer, a stronger and a more prosperous place to raise your family, and grow your business, today and for years to come," Garrity said in her acceptance speech, per WITF.
Context: Shapiro has yet to announce he's seeking reelection, but the GOP is expecting the ambitious first-term governor and big-time fundraiser with solid marks from voters to do so.
The intrigue: State Sen. Doug Mastriano, a former Republican gubernatorial candidate who lost to Shapiro in 2022, hasn't ruled out another run. Mastriano didn't respond to Axios' request for comment.
Between the lines: Garrity's endorsement could discourage challengers, sparing Republicans a messy and costly primary fight.
