Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro Allegedly Helped Republican Opponent After Criticism, Ally Claims

Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro allegedly assisted a Republican state treasurer’s 2024 reelection campaign after her Democratic opponent publicly questioned Shapiro’s suitability as a potential vice-presidential running mate, according to a close ally of the governor.

Bob Brooks, a Shapiro-backed candidate for the U.S. House of Representatives, made the remarks on Wednesday during a meeting with a small group of Democratic college students at Lehigh University. Axios obtained a recording of the conversation, which was also confirmed by an attendee.

Why This Matters

Shapiro’s alleged decision to support a Republican over a Democrat—particularly in response to personal criticism—could pose a political liability if he pursues a presidential run in 2028, as many anticipate. It may also reinforce perceptions among some of his supporters that he can be vindictive, takes criticism personally, and prioritizes his own ambitions over party loyalty.

Key Details

The incident Brooks described occurred in summer 2024, during a period when Shapiro was being vetted by Kamala Harris’ team as a potential vice-presidential candidate.

The Democratic candidate for Pennsylvania treasurer at the time, Erin McClelland, had publicly questioned whether Shapiro could serve as a subordinate to a female president.

Brooks, who also serves as president of the Pennsylvania Professional Fire Fighters Association, told the students that Shapiro had requested the union endorse Republican Stacy Garrity over McClelland in the 2024 state treasurer’s race.

"That was a request, ironically, from Gov. Josh Shapiro because Erin McClelland was running against her," Brooks said. "Josh Shapiro had requested because Erin McClelland came out hard about something on Josh Shapiro, and really, the Democratic Party as a whole turned on Erin McClelland. And he said, 'I would like you guys to endorse Stacy Garrity.'"

Reactions and Denials

When asked why his union backed Garrity in 2024, Brooks responded:

"I misspoke and made an inaccurate comment." "Many people in our party — including organized labor across the commonwealth — were upset with McClelland's bad-faith attacks against our governor. The governor did not ask my union to make any endorsements."

Manuel Bonder, Shapiro’s spokesperson, called Brooks’ Wednesday comment "inaccurate," stating:

"The governor did not ask Bob Brooks to make any endorsements in that race — and the only races he is focused on are winning up and down the ballot this November."

Spokespeople for Shapiro and Brooks declined interview requests. A spokesperson for Garrity did not provide a comment.

Pat Martin, secretary-treasurer of the Pennsylvania Professional Fire Fighters Association, confirmed that McClelland did not apply for the union’s endorsement in 2024.

Broader Implications

Shapiro has maintained a close relationship with Brooks, actively supporting his congressional campaign. Shapiro encouraged Brooks to run and later appeared in a direct-to-camera TV ad for him during a crowded Democratic primary.

The episode described by Brooks reflects Shapiro’s reputation for aggressive political tactics, even when directed at fellow Democrats. Harris’ team reportedly received complaints about Shapiro from Pennsylvania Democrats during his vice-presidential vetting process.