HARRISBURG, PA – U.S. Congressman Dan Meuser (PA-09) has announced he will not be seeking the Republican nomination for Governor of Pennsylvania in the upcoming 2026 election.3 This decision, conveyed in a statement released Tuesday evening, puts an end to widespread speculation that he would challenge incumbent Democratic Governor Josh Shapiro.
In his comprehensive statement, Congressman Meuser articulated his reasoning: "Continuing the progress we made in Congress is too important, which is why I have decided to remain in the U.S. House of Representatives, working with President Trump and our Republican majorities in both the House and Senate to pass his agenda and forgo a campaign for Governor of Pennsylvania." This indicates a clear focus on his current legislative role and support for national Republican initiatives.
Meuser was widely regarded by many within the Republican party as a potentially strong contender against Governor Shapiro, given his fundraising capabilities and conservative platform. His decision leaves the field open for other Republican hopefuls in what is expected to be a competitive gubernatorial race in Pennsylvania.