Shapiro’s PAC Disburses $1.38 Million to Democratic Candidates Ahead of Election Day
HARRISBURG – In the lead-up to Pennsylvania’s Nov. 5 election, Governor Josh Shapiro’s political action committee (PAC) has made headlines by donating $1.38 million to various Democratic candidates. Key beneficiaries include attorney general candidate Eugene DePasquale and auditor general contender Malcolm Kenyatta. However, one notable absence from the list of recipients is Erin McClelland, who is vying to flip the state Treasury seat for the Democrats.
Shapiro’s PAC began with a substantial $4.9 million from 2023, raising an additional $9 million through mid-October, largely boosted by Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris considering Shapiro as her running mate. With nearly $5 million spent so far, the PAC retains $8.9 million for further campaign activities.
Tensions have surfaced surrounding McClelland, who voiced opposition to Shapiro’s endorsement by Harris. Her critical post on social media, which seemed to reference sexual harassment allegations against a former aide of Shapiro, did not sit well with state party leadership. State Sen. Sharif Street expressed his offense at her remarks, while McClelland’s campaign has yet to issue a statement addressing the controversy.
Despite Shapiro’s support of DePasquale and Kenyatta—who received $100,000 and $25,000, respectively—McClelland has faced challenges in fundraising against incumbent Republican Treasurer Stacy Garrity, a vocal supporter of former President Trump. Meanwhile, DePasquale will contend with several candidates, including GOP rival Dave Sunday, who has significant PAC backing. Kenyatta aims to challenge incumbent Republican Auditor General Tim DeFoor.
Shapiro’s PAC also contributed $1 million to the Pennsylvania House Democratic Campaign Committee and $250,000 to the Senate Democratic Campaign Committee, as Democrats strive to maintain control in the state legislature. Spotlight PA contributed reporting to this story.
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