Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro launches New Path PAC, signaling possible 2028 presidential run
Governor Josh Shapiro of Pennsylvania announced the formation of New Path PAC, a federal political action committee, on Oct. 16, 2026. The PAC will raise and donate funds to Democratic congressional candidates across the Commonwealth, and its launch is being read as the loudest signal yet that Shapiro is contemplating a run for the 2028 Democratic presidential nomination.
Shapiro reiterated his intention to serve a full four‑year term if he wins reelection, but aides say the PAC provides a strategic tool to support down‑ballot races and expand his national profile ahead of the midterm elections. Executive director Marshall Cohen told the Washington Examiner that “the chaos, cruelty, and corruption in D.C. is hurting working families all across Pennsylvania – but by winning this November, we have the power to place a check on Donald Trump and put this country on a new path.”
A second source added that with Pennsylvania at the center of Democrats’ opportunity to flip the U.S. House, the new PAC will enable “more direct support to these critical congressional campaigns in our Commonwealth.” The timing aligns with the final push of the 2026 gubernatorial campaign, where Shapiro holds a 23‑point lead over Republican challenger Stacy Garrity.
Polls from RealClearPolitics show Shapiro averaging 6 percent support among Democratic primary voters for the 2028 presidential nomination, well behind former Vice President Kamala Harris, who leads with 26 percent. While those numbers suggest an uphill battle nationally, the PAC could help Shapiro build a fundraising base and a network of allies in key districts.
Shapiro has spoken about presidential ambitions before. In his 2026 book, Where We Keep the Light, he recounted considering a bid for the 2024 Democratic nomination after President Joe Biden suspended his campaign, ultimately deciding against it. The new PAC may be the next step in that long‑standing curiosity.
The governor’s office also faces a separate controversy involving a whistleblower lawsuit over the renovation of the governor’s mansion, alleging cost overruns and alleged retaliation against a procurement specialist. While the lawsuit does not name Shapiro as a defendant, the governor’s spokesperson described the claims as “politically motivated” and without merit. The controversy adds a layer of scrutiny as Shapiro expands his political reach.
New Path PAC is registered as a federal entity and will operate under standard campaign finance rules. Its early activity will likely focus on candidates in competitive districts where Democratic gains could swing control of the House.
The next steps include filing the PAC’s initial reports with the Federal Election Commission and beginning a fundraising drive aimed at both state and national donors. Observers will watch whether the PAC’s fundraising success translates into broader political momentum for Shapiro as the 2028 presidential calendar unfolds.
