First in History: GOP Holds All Three Statewide Row Offices in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania’s Row Officers Sworn In, Ushering in New Era of State Leadership

HARRISBURG, Pa. (AP) – In a historic moment for Pennsylvania politics, the state’s three statewide row officers were sworn in to new terms on Tuesday, joining Democratic Gov. Josh Shapiro in Harrisburg. For the first time, Pennsylvania voters have elected Republicans to all three row offices simultaneously, highlighting a shift in the political landscape.

Treasurer Stacy Garrity and Auditor General Tim DeFoor each began their second four-year terms, while Attorney General-elect Dave Sunday took the oath for his first term. The back-to-back ceremonies took place in the Forum Auditorium, just steps away from the state Capitol, with Governor Shapiro in attendance.

These offices often serve as launchpads for higher political aspirations. With responsibilities that include acting as watchdogs over state finances and legal proceedings, the row officers have significant influence over governance in Pennsylvania.

Checks and Balances in Focus
The roles of treasurer and auditor general intersect with key financial operations of the state. Garrity and DeFoor will have a say in approving general obligation bond issues and tax-anticipation notes, while the treasurer has the authority to block payments deemed illegal.

Attorney General Sunday will play a critical role in ensuring the legality of executive branch contracts and could shape Governor Shapiro’s policy agenda in legal disputes, both within Pennsylvania and at the federal level.

This dynamic comes at a time of tension between Shapiro and the Republican-controlled state Senate over the state’s financial trajectory. With Pennsylvania projected to end the fiscal year with a $10.5 billion surplus, Garrity and fellow Republicans have raised concerns about spending levels that could deplete the surplus in coming years.

Eyes on the Future
The newly sworn-in officers are widely seen as potential contenders for higher office. Garrity is rumored to be a strong GOP candidate to challenge Shapiro in his 2026 reelection bid. Meanwhile, Shapiro himself is viewed as a rising star in the Democratic Party, having been shortlisted as a potential running mate for Vice President Kamala Harris in her 2024 campaign and considered a likely presidential contender in 2028.

For Sunday, the former district attorney of York County, his election marks a milestone for Republicans in Pennsylvania. He is the first Republican to win the attorney general’s office since Tom Corbett in 2008. Historically, the position has been a springboard to the governor’s mansion, with four of the last five elected attorneys general, including Shapiro, pursuing successful gubernatorial campaigns.

As Pennsylvania’s political and financial future unfolds, these newly sworn-in officers will play pivotal roles in shaping the state’s direction, balancing governance, and pursuing their political aspirations.