Pennsylvania Josh Shapiro took his reelection bus tour to Lancaster on Friday, pressing for a legislative trifecta that he argues is essential for enacting key policy changes, including raising the minimum wage and codifying abortion rights.
Speaking to a gathering of approximately 200 supporters, Shapiro focused heavily on the mechanics of state government power. He detailed a strategy centered on the 36th Senatorial District, where state Sen. James Malone is running for reelection against Republican Rep. Tom Jones. Shapiro told the crowd that returning Malone to Harrisburg acts as a crucial catalyst for broader political control.
“Because if you send Malone back to the state senate, you get a two-fer,” Shapiro said. “Number one, you get an outstanding state senator who’s going to continue to serve his community well. But here’s the other thing: you get. You send him back, then you’re responsible for the trifecta, and the trifecta isn’t just about achieving something politically; it’s about making people’s lives better.”
Lancaster showed up today — and this community is ready to show up once again to elect Democrats up and down the ballot on November 3rd. pic.twitter.com/LOTxKK0lOS
The Legislative Stakes in Harrisburg
A legislative trifecta would give Democrats control of the governor’s mansion and majority control of both branches of the General Assembly. Shapiro outlined an immediate legislative agenda if that balance is achieved following the upcoming election cycle.
The governor stated that his first order of business in January would be raising the minimum wage to $15 per hour. In addition to wage legislation, Shapiro indicated that another bill would be to codify abortion rights.
The event also drew local endorsements highlighting constituent services. Pat Gerlach, a former Republican who serves as a district leader in Donegal, praised Malone’s district work, contrasting it with his opponent’s record in securing municipal grants.
If you want that to continue, then reelect me. Because that’s something I do. And it’s something that my opponent has traditionally not done. — State Sen. James Malone
National Politics and Federal Critique
Shapiro expanded his remarks beyond state legislative races, turning his attention to President Donald Trump.
“How about the tariffs? You’re paying a $3,100 chaos tax in America because of Donald Trump,” Shapiro said during his 25-minute address.
Shapiro did not mention his gubernatorial challenger Stacy Garrity, focusing instead on federal congressional races in the region. He called Rep. Lloyd Smucker an “empty suit” and urged voters in Lancaster County to support Nancy Mannion instead.
Election Security Preparations
Addressing the administration of the upcoming election, Shapiro noted the work of a task force established more than a year ago. The initiative was designed to anticipate and prepare for potential challenges to election procedures in the Commonwealth.
“We’re prepared. We’ve also been prepared should they dispatch federal troops,” Shapiro said regarding election security measures. He encouraged voters to utilize mail-in drop boxes or vote in person at designated polling places, assuring attendees that the process would remain safe and secure.
