Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro (D) and state Treasurer Stacy Garrity (R) debated at the state Capitol in Harrisburg on Wednesday evening, marking their first and only scheduled encounter before the gubernatorial election. The candidates addressed data center development, an ongoing measles outbreak, education funding, and economic policy as voters prepare for the upcoming midterms.
The debate occurred as Shapiro holds a lead in reelection polling, including a Quinnipiac University poll released Wednesday showing him 25 points ahead of Garrity. During the event, moderators questioned Shapiro on his intentions for a potential 2028 presidential run, which he declined to address directly, stating his focus is on his reelection campaign.
On the issue of data centers, the candidates differed on how to manage facilities that consume high levels of energy. Shapiro stated he implemented specific requirements to ensure local community support before permitting construction. Garrity called for a pause on new developments to allow for stakeholder meetings, though she did not specify how long such a moratorium would last, saying it should be done "very quickly."
Regarding public health, the candidates traded jabs over a measles outbreak that has resulted in four reported deaths in Pennsylvania this year. Garrity noted she supports vaccinations but questioned the transparency of the administration's reporting. Shapiro stated that he stands with scientific evidence and attributed the return of the virus to vaccine misinformation.
Education policy also faces potential shifts, as the state has recently spent $3 billion on schooling. Garrity highlighted a need to ensure students meet reading and math benchmarks by the third and eighth grades, respectively, suggesting the implementation of best practices from successful schools in those that are failing. Shapiro expressed support for a "both/and" approach that continues investments in public schools while remaining open to private school vouchers through bipartisan agreement.
Pennsylvanians will also see the debate's impact in potential changes to election laws and energy costs. Garrity expressed strong support for voter ID requirements, while Shapiro said he remains open to such legislation if it is not based on "conspiracy theories." On the economy, Garrity proposed a rebate to reduce gas prices by one-third and the elimination of gross receipts taxes. Shapiro stated he would be open to a gas tax suspension but noted that such action requires legislative cooperation. The deadline to request a mail-in ballot is October 27, with the election scheduled for November 3.