The Pennsylvania primary election is Tuesday and Republicans will go to the polls to choose a running mate for State Treasurer Stacy Garrity in her quest to unseat Democratic Gov. Josh Shapiro.

It is a choice between a pair of Western Pennsylvania candidates in Jason Richey and John Ventre.

Jason Richey

• Experience: Attorney, K&L Gates. Chair, Republican Committee of Pennsylvania
• Priorities
  • Protect taxpayers from reckless spending and higher taxes
  • Prioritize public safety and support our law enforcement
  • Support job creators and economic growth
  • Defend our constitutional rights and liberties
  • Ensure state government is transparent and works for the people not the special interests.
  • Harness our God-given natural resources and become a global leader in energy production.
• Fundraising: $60,643 from January 1-March 30. Cash On Hand: $53,020.
• Education: B.A., Allegheny College, 1993. J.D., Ohio State College of Law, 1996.
• Quotable: “As Lieutenant Governor, my focus will be on cutting regulations that strangle our private sector, unleashing our energy potential responsibly, and making state government work for the people who pay for it.”
• Links: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube | Bluesky | TikTok

John Ventre

• Experience: Retired UPS Head of Regional Security
• Priorities
  • Eliminate the $0.58 fuel tax
  • End sales tax on ammunition
  • Cut wasteful spending
  • Restore commonsense leadership
  • Put Pennsylvania first
• Fundraising: $0 from January 1-March 31. Cash On Hand: $0.
• Education: A.A.S., Farmingdale State University, 1977
• Quotable: “I am a “patriot candidate,” similar to [GOP 2022 gubernatorial nominee Doug] Mastriano but different in that I would’ve never voted for Act 77. I am similar to Trump, having grown up in NYC. I bring the patriot vote whereas endorsements bring committee help — a huge difference.”
• Links: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube | Bluesky | TikTok

In The News

• Richey, Ventre seek GOP nomination for Lt. Governor (May 14, Tribune-Review)
• Two Republicans face off in primary race for Pa. lieutenant governor (May 13, Penn Live)
• GOP contest for lieutenant governor is a highlight of May 19 races (May 13, Indiana Gazette)
• Republicans Jason Richey and John Ventre both want to be Stacy Garrity’s running mate (April 29, Spotlight PA)
• Voter’s Guide (April 20, WESA)