Abington’s Josh Shapiro has yet to formally launch his reelection campaign, but he’s already flexing political muscle, writes Brett Sholtis for the Philadelphia Inquirer.
This week, Shapiro donated $250,000 to the Pennsylvania Democratic Party. This coincided with the appointment of longtime ally Larry Hailsham Jr. as the party’s new executive director.
Hailsham, a Pittsburgh native, has worked closely with Josh Shapiro for years. He was Shapiro’s political director the 2022 gubernatorial campaign as well as executive deputy chief of staff in his administration.
The move comes as Shapiro prepares for a 2026 reelection fight against Republican challenger and current state Treasurer Stacy Garrity. While Shapiro bested State Sen. Doug Mastriano by 15 points in 2022, Garrity brings her own statewide win into the mix.
Still, the governor’s popularity could give Democrats a boost. A new Quinnipiac poll shows Shapiro with a 60% approval rating, including two-thirds of independents, and holding a double-digit lead over Garrity.
With his campaign coffers opening and close allies elevated to party leadership, Shapiro is positioning both himself and Pennsylvania Democrats for the next election cycle. His high approval numbers may prove pivotal in energizing voters across Montgomery County and beyond.
To read more about Josh Shapiro’s political aspirations, visit Philadelphia Inquirer.
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