Pennsylvania state government took a step forward into the new year with the January 19^th swearing-in of our three statewide row offices. Each of these offices has a direct impact on the proper function of our state government and provides the institutional framework we need to promote the stability needed for small business success.

Our state constitution establishes three statewide departments that, while technically considered a part of the executive branch, are led by individuals elected by “we the people.”  The fact that these are elected positions serves as an essential check and balance on all branches of government and promotes independence in approach to three key functions.

New Auditor General

Auditor General Timothy DeFoor (R) won the open seat that has been held by outgoing Auditor General Eugene DePasquale for two terms.  AG DeFoor had previously served as Dauphin County Controller, and he has made history by being the first African American to hold the office.  Having an impressive background in financial management leadership, AG DeFoor’s stated ambition is to be the best government watchdog Pennsylvania has every had, and he has taken steps to assemble an excellent team of professionals to help him achieve this goal.

New Treasurer

And in a victory that many consider an upset, Stacy Garrity (R) won the race for Treasurer of Pennsylvania and has been sworn-in as the 78^th Treasurer of our Commonwealth.  Treasurer Garrity has impressive credentials through a military career that included tours of duty in Afghanistan, and in top financial roles in two highly successful medium-sized corporations.  Though defeated for re-election, outgoing Treasurer Joe Torsella expressed his best wishes for Treasurer Garrity’s success through a video at her inauguration ceremony, and he has instructed his team to make sure the transition is a positive one.

Attorney General Reelected

Attorney General Josh Shapiro (D) has been sworn-in to a second four-year term following his re-election last fall.  As the top law enforcement officer in our commonwealth, the Attorney General oversees those prosecutions not handled by the District Attorneys in our 67 counties.  AG Shapiro has given particular focus to child predator prosecutions during his first term and has gained national attention for his filing of suits in opposition to Trump Administration policies.  AG Shapiro is widely mentioned as a probable candidate for governor in 2022.

We at NFIB wish each them success as they begin their terms, and rest assured, your NFIB Pennsylvania team will be raising our issues and concerns with them regularly as their governing duties now begin.