Potential Republican Candidates for Pennsylvania Governor Hold Firm Anti-Abortion Views
In Pennsylvania, two prominent Republican figures are showing interest in the upcoming gubernatorial race. State Senator Doug Mastriano and Treasurer Stacy Garrity, both known for their strong anti-abortion stances, may challenge the current Democratic Governor, Josh Shapiro, in the next election cycle.
Mastriano, who previously ran for governor in 2022 and lost by nearly 15 points, is contemplating another campaign. “Running for state office is not one and done,” he stated, hinting at a strategic plan should he decide to run again.
His previous defeat was largely attributed to his far-right positions on several issues, most notably his commitment to a six-week abortion ban. Mastriano has openly described himself as “the most pro-life guy out there,” a stance that has not resonated with a significant portion of Pennsylvania voters.
A University of Maryland poll conducted last year revealed a disconnect between Mastriano’s views and those of Pennsylvania Republicans, 53% of whom oppose criminalizing abortion. Among Democrats, the opposition is even stronger at 73%. Furthermore, 69% of all Pennsylvanians favor a federal law to protect abortion access.
Within the Republican ranks, there is caution regarding Mastriano’s potential candidacy. Jim Worthington, a Republican donor from Bucks County, expressed concern, stating, “Doug Mastriano would be a death sentence, for not only the governor’s race, but also would hurt us so bad in keeping the Congress.”
Stacy Garrity, serving as the state treasurer since 2021, echoes Mastriano’s views on abortion, which might not ease these concerns. In a 2022 Facebook post, she praised the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade as “a great day for the sanctity of life,” proclaiming that “justice has prevailed.”
Garrity has also been vocal on social media about her stance, sharing a post that read, “Roses are red, violets are blue, defund Planned Parenthood,” which she later used as a slogan on campaign merchandise. This is significant given that a KFF tracking poll indicates nearly one in three American women have sought health care from Planned Parenthood at some point in their lives.
In another post, Garrity declared, “Pennsylvania needs a PRO-LIFE governor,” underscoring her commitment to the anti-abortion cause.
There is speculation about the possibility of Mastriano and Garrity running on a combined ticket, with one potentially serving as lieutenant governor.
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