Pennsylvania state Treasurer Stacy Garrity (R) is entering the gubernatorial race to challenge Gov. Josh Shapiro (D) as he seeks reelection next year.

Garrity announced her candidacy on Monday in a video posted on X, making her the first major Republican seeking to face off against Shapiro in 2026.

The video accuses Shapiro, viewed as a potential 2028 presidential candidate, of focusing on a potential White House run and fundraising in other states instead of addressing problems in the Keystone State like delays approving the state budget. 

“Today, I’m announcing that I’m running to become Pennsylvania’s next governor, and I’m giving you and your family my solemn oath that I will work hard every day to fix the problems Josh Shapiro has created,” Garrity said. 

The video emphasizes Garrity’s status as a veteran, having served in Iraq and reaching the rank of colonel. It also promotes ties between Garrity and President Trump, calling her a “strong ally” of the president.

The state Treasurer said she wants to work to make Pennsylvania more affordable and attract more jobs so young adults choose to stay. 

“I’m not just going to ask for your support,” she said. “I’m going to work hard every day to earn it.” 

Garrity is the first major Republican to jump into the gubernatorial race, but others could join. State Sen. Doug Mastriano (R), who was the GOP nominee against Shapiro in 2022, is considering another run. 

Mastriano had received significant attention over his far-right views and struggled in both fundraising and polling. Having been Democrats’ preferred choice and viewed as easier to beat in the general election, Mastriano lost by nearly 15 points. 

But he could still gain traction in a Republican primary. 

A few possible candidates have already ruled out bids, including Rep. Dan Meuser (R), whom Trump had said would have his support. An endorsement in the Republican primary from the president would be critical in boosting a candidate’s chances of the nomination. 

Still, Shapiro will be difficult to beat. He’s demonstrated himself to be a strong fundraiser and has enjoyed significant popularity through his term as governor. 

He was asked on Friday about his views on Garrity’s possible run, but he said he wouldn’t get involved in Republicans’ “intramural fight.” 

“You know what I’m going to do? I’m going to keep creating jobs here in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania,” he said. “I’m going to fund our kids’ schools. I’m going to make sure that we have more cops on the beat, and I’m going to focus on doing my job of bringing Republicans and Democrats together to get stuff done. That’s my focus.”