Pennsylvania State Sen. Doug Mastriano (R-Franklin/Adams) is contemplating another bid for the governorship in 2026. Mastriano said he and his wife are carefully considering this decision, seeking guidance through prayer and assessing public support for his potential candidacy.
Mastriano, a retired Army colonel, secured the Republican nomination for governor in 2022 but was defeated by Josh Shapiro in the general election by 15 points. Reflecting on his loss, Mastriano said he identified the failure to embrace mail-in voting as a critical factor.
Despite controversies surrounding his efforts to challenge the 2020 presidential election results and his presence in Washington, D.C. ,on January 6, 2021, Mastriano remains active in state politics. He currently chairs the State Senate Veterans Affairs & Emergency Preparedness Committee and has sponsored various legislative initiatives.
Other potential Republican contenders for the 2026 gubernatorial race include State Treasurer Stacy Garrity and U.S. Rep. Dan Meuser. Meanwhile, incumbent Gov. Josh Shapiro (D) is expected to seek re-election, with speculation about a possible 2028 presidential run.
Mastriano’s decision to run will likely depend on the level of support he receives and the presence of other candidates who align with his values.
