Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro has launched his reelection campaign, showcasing a commitment to “keep getting stuff done,” a mantra that resonates throughout his newly released memoir, “Where We Keep the Light.” The 52-year-old Democrat positions himself as a pragmatic leader capable of uniting diverse groups and navigating the complexities of governance in a pivotal battleground state.
In his memoir, Shapiro reflects on his career path after graduating from Georgetown Law, departing from lucrative roles sought by his peers to serve as a county commissioner in Montgomery County, and subsequently as the state’s attorney general. His election as governor in 2022 significantly raised his national profile, propelling him into discussions for a vice presidential candidacy alongside Kamala Harris in the upcoming 2024 election, indicating a potential trajectory toward future presidential aspirations.
Shapiro acknowledges various career paths he eschewed, including lobbying and a Senate run, instead opting to lead in his unique way. He recalls a moment when Senate leaders Harry Reid and Chuck Schumer encouraged him to challenge Republican Senator Pat Toomey, but he ultimately decided against it, citing the slower pace of the Senate as a deterrent. “You’re one of those people who likes doing stuff,” Schumer remarked, suggesting Shapiro’s preference for active engagement in community issues.
Throughout “Where We Keep the Light,” Shapiro illustrates his bipartisan efforts, including a notable deal in 2007 to elect a moderate Republican as the first minority-party speaker of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives. His approach emphasizes collaboration, as he recounts efforts to connect with various constituents, underlining the importance of finding common ground.
The memoir does not shy away from addressing complex issues, including Shapiro’s experiences as a Jewish leader navigating political challenges and anti-Semitism. He reflects on the personal risks associated with his faith and the including the traumatic events of the Tree of Life synagogue shooting in 2018 and a firebombing incident at the governor’s residence in April 2025. These experiences have contributed to his evolving stance on issues such as the death penalty, which he has publicly opposed.
Shapiro’s faith is a recurring theme in his narrative, serving as a foundation for his moral and ethical decisions in politics. He admits that his beliefs sometimes led him to feel singled out, particularly in relation to his Jewish identity amid political scrutiny. While noting the challenges he faces, he stresses the importance of moral clarity in decision-making and the role that prayer plays in his deliberations.
The memoir also hints at Shapiro’s views on broader political issues, including his concerns regarding anti-Palestinian rhetoric within discourse surrounding Israel. He reflects on moments in his youth spent in Israel and touches on his prior controversial writings and affiliations, although he avoids delving deeply into these aspects.
As Shapiro prepares for his reelection campaign against the backdrop of a potential presidential run, his memoir serves as both a personal testament and a political strategy aimed at appealing to a diverse electorate. His experiences and reflections suggest a commitment to continue fostering bipartisan solutions that resonate across cultural and political divides.