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Pennsylvania Treasurer Stacy Garrity announced that taxpayer funds will not cover over $1 million in security upgrades at Governor Josh Shapiro's private residence. The decision follows an arson attack last year at the state-owned governor's mansion in Harrisburg. Garrity, a Republican, stated there is no legal basis for using public money for improvements on private property, even for a sitting governor.
The Pennsylvania State Police had requested reimbursement for the upgrades, but Garrity highlighted that they overlooked statutory spending limits. She suggested alternative funding routes, such as legislative approval or the state's dispute settlement process. The upgrades, which were kept under wraps until last fall, were recommended by state police for Shapiro's safety after the arson incident.
Governor Shapiro, who is running for re-election and is seen as a potential 2028 presidential candidate, criticized Garrity's decision as politically motivated. His office stated that the treasurer should "put partisanship aside" and ensure payments to contractors. Meanwhile, Garrity emphasized the importance of public officials' security but maintained her department's lack of legal authority to approve the payments.
The security enhancements, including a new security system and landscaping, were initiated following the attack by Cody Balmer, who pleaded guilty to attempted murder. The attack forced Shapiro's family to evacuate their Harrisburg residence. The upgrades at Shapiro's private home in Abington, a Philadelphia suburb, have sparked controversy, including a land ownership dispute with a neighbor.
The state has already spent over $26 million on security improvements at the governor's official residence. As the debate continues, Shapiro's administration faces scrutiny over the use of public funds, with some lawmakers demanding more transparency. Read more here.