A new report is shedding light on behind-the-scenes political maneuvering in Pennsylvania, with an ally of Gov. Josh Shapiro (D) claiming the governor quietly supported a Republican candidate’s reelection effort as part of an apparent response to criticism from within his own party.
According to a report published Sunday by Axios, the allegation surfaced during remarks made by Democratic congressional candidate Bob Brooks, who spoke to a small group of college students at Lehigh University. Brooks, who has been backed by Shapiro, suggested that the governor encouraged support for Republican Stacy Garrity during the 2024 election cycle.
The comments came as Brooks was asked why a Pennsylvania firefighters union supported Garrity over Democrat Erin McClelland. Garrity, who was serving as state treasurer at the time, ultimately defeated McClelland in that race.
In a recorded exchange included in the report, Brooks told students that the union’s endorsement was made at Shapiro’s request. He claimed the move was tied to McClelland’s public criticism of the governor during the 2024 election, when Shapiro was being considered as a potential running mate for Vice President Kamala Harris.
Brooks described internal party backlash against McClelland, saying that Democratic leaders had largely turned on her after she raised concerns about Shapiro’s suitability for national office. He quoted the governor as allegedly encouraging support for Garrity instead.
McClelland’s criticism at the time focused on leadership qualities, including whether a vice presidential candidate would be “secure enough” to serve under a woman and remain loyal to the administration. She also referenced a controversy involving a former top Shapiro aide, Mike Vereb, who had been accused of sexual harassment. While Vereb remained in his position for months after a complaint was filed, the administration later reached a settlement with the accuser. Shapiro has said he was unaware of the complaint until months later.
Following the Axios report, Brooks walked back his remarks, telling the outlet that he had “misspoken” and made an inaccurate statement. Still, the episode has fueled broader discussion about the governor’s political style and his approach to intra-party disputes.
The report characterized the situation as an example of Shapiro’s willingness to engage in hardball tactics, even when it involves members of his own party. It also highlighted concerns among some observers that such moves could reinforce perceptions that the governor is quick to respond to criticism in ways that may sideline allies.
Brooks, who is running as a Democrat to replace Republican Rep. Ryan Mackenzie, has leaned heavily on his background as a firefighter, having served from 2005 to 2025. His campaign materials prominently feature Shapiro’s endorsement, underscoring the governor’s continued influence in the race.
At the same time, Brooks has faced his own scrutiny in recent weeks. He issued an apology for past social media posts after drawing criticism for sharing a pro-gun meme featuring Clint Eastwood and for expressing support for law enforcement during the unrest tied to the Black Lives Matter protests in 2020.
The unfolding situation highlights the often complicated dynamics within party politics, where alliances can shift quickly and personal critiques may carry lasting consequences. While the full context of Brooks’ initial claim remains in dispute, the episode adds another layer to ongoing questions about leadership, loyalty, and strategy within Pennsylvania’s Democratic ranks.
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