Republican Stacy Garrity used Pennsylvania’s lone governor debate Wednesday night to press Gov. Josh Shapiro on taxes and gas prices while trailing badly in polls and money.
Axios Pittsburgh reported the hourlong showdown at the ABC27 studio in Harrisburg is likely the only one of the race, and that the candidates traded barbs over data centers, taxes, skill games and gas prices.
Garrity, the state treasurer, noted Shapiro never delivered his promised $250 gas rebate and countered with a $750 proposal. Shapiro said he would consider a gas tax holiday if the legislature sends him one. On skill games, Garrity said Shapiro’s 52% tax plan would hurt VFWs and small businesses. She would legalize the machines with a flat $500 monthly fee per machine, while Shapiro would use the revenue for public transit.
They found some common ground. Both candidates ruled out taxpayer money for new pro sports stadiums, and both have turned against data centers after initially backing them. Shapiro touted his restrictions and local control, while Garrity called for a pause without saying how long.
Garrity largely stood by President Donald Trump, suggesting only that tariffs be more targeted. “While some tariffs have helped manufacturers, some have not,” she said. Shapiro did not close the door on a 2028 White House bid, saying he was focused on re-election and on backing candidates who will push back on Trump. Axios noted that Shapiro has led in every poll so far, and by wide margins in several.
Quinnipiac: Shapiro 59%, Garrity 34%
Money raised: Shapiro about $55 million, Garrity $5.3 million
Election Day is Nov. 3. The voter registration deadline is Oct. 19, and the deadline to apply for a mail-in ballot is Oct. 27.
