Garrity Campaign Says Shapiro Took Millions From Out-of-State Data Center Interests

Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro is facing renewed scrutiny over campaign contributions tied to the data-center industry, with Republican gubernatorial nominee Stacy Garrity accusing the Democratic incumbent of taking millions of dollars from out-of-state interests connected to the rapidly expanding sector.

Garrity campaign spokesperson Matt Beynon said that the campaign's figures show Shapiro received more than $5 million from out-of-state data-center interests during his current reelection campaign.

The campaign has also cited a figure of roughly $10 million when looking at Shapiro's political career as a whole. Beynon said the larger number includes contributions dating back to Shapiro's first campaign for governor. “However, the ad references ‘more than $5 million from out of state data center developers’ because that is in reference to Shapiro’s 2026 re-election campaign,” Beynon said.

The issue has become a major flashpoint in the governor's race as Pennsylvania communities push back against a wave of proposed data-center projects.

Garrity has repeatedly attacked Shapiro over his administration's previous efforts to attract data-center investment, including support for major projects involving Amazon and other technology companies. Shapiro had pursued partnerships with major technology and AI companies and helped fast-track data-center projects.

Shapiro's campaign disputes the characterization some of the donors as data-center developers. USA TODAY's analysis found that some of the money came from individuals with ties to the broader technology and artificial-intelligence industries.

The controversy comes as Shapiro himself has shifted his approach to the industry. In August, he issued an executive order establishing new requirements for data-center development after months of mounting public opposition.

The dispute puts Shapiro’s campaign finances directly into the growing debate over Pennsylvania’s data-center boom.

Garrity says the contributions show a financial connection between the governor and an industry that has faced increasing scrutiny from Pennsylvania residents. Shapiro’s campaign disputes that characterization.

For now, the money trail and Shapiro’s evolving position on data centers are giving Republicans another issue to press as the governor’s race heads toward its final stretch.