Overview
- Quinnipiac’s poll, which was released Oct. 7, shows Gov. Josh Shapiro ahead 59% to Stacy Garrity’s 34% among likely voters, signaling a large polling advantage.
- The candidates met in the only statewide televised debate on Oct. 7, their first such face-off since 2018, where they clashed on the budget, education, Medicaid, taxes, and election rules.
- Shapiro has a steep financial edge, raising roughly $13.3 million in the most recent reporting period compared with Garrity’s $1.8 million, giving him greater capacity for advertising and turnout efforts.
- Data centers emerged as the central policy battleground with Shapiro defending an August executive order that requires local approval and on-site power for large projects while Garrity calls for a pause to let municipalities update zoning and protections.
- Both candidates affirmed strong support for Israel during the debate, and the race’s trajectory—combined with tight down-ballot contests and voter deadlines—means the November outcome will shape state policy on energy, education, and elections.