Joshua Imhof | news editor

While allegations and controversy have brought some out of state races to the forefront of American political discussion, Pennsylvania and Allegheny County have multiple races that will be just as impactful to the future of the United States – and Duquesne students.

In the gubernatorial election, Democrat incumbent Josh Shapiro looks to secure a second term as he runs against Republican candidate Stacy Garrity. The race will be closely watched, especially since Josh Shapiro remains a possible presidential candidate for the 2028 election.

During his time in office, Shapiro has worked to improve the commonwealth’s infrastructure, particularly in Pittsburgh and Philadelphia. In 2024, Shapiro’s administration invested $62.6 million into Downtown Pittsburgh to help improve and revitalize it.

Shapiro has also increased funding for public schools by nearly $3 billion, cut college graduation requirements for some government jobs and signed an executive order requiring data center developers to get local community approval and maintain environmental standards in order to build.

Garrity, who has served as Pennsylvania’s treasurer since 2021, has promised to make costs of living more affordable, “unleash” the commonwealth’s energy resources and reduce property tax burdens, according to her website.

To increase energy output, Garrity says she will lift bans on oil drilling and fast-track permits for natural gas production, pipelines and power plants. She also supports passing Voter ID to require Americans to present identification when going to the polls.

In addition to the races for governor, Pennsylvania will also host numerous U.S. House elections this year, some of which will happen right here in Allegheny County.

Allegheny County includes the 12th and 17th U.S. Congressional Districts. In the 12th district, Democrat incumbent Summer Lee looks to win her third straight election against Republican challengers. Her opponent, Republican James Hayes, also ran against Lee two years ago.

Some of Lee’s key goals are banning members of Congress from trading stocks, expanding Medicare coverage through support of the Medicare for All Act and guaranteeing equal access to abortion coverage, according to her campaign website.

Hayes looks to tighten government spending, revive the economy through support of local businesses and unions and securing energy independence in Western Pennsylvania, according to his campaign website.

In the 17th district, Democrat incumbent Chris Deluzio will take on Republican Tony Guy.

Deluzio has campaigned to lower everyday costs of living, reduce carbon emissions, invest in clean energy and enforce stricter gun legislation. Guy has said that he will advocate for a more secure border, support an America First agenda and strengthen the Pennsylvania economy.

The deadline to register to vote has already passed, but students can request mail-in ballots until Oct. 27 in Allegheny County.

Joshua Imhof can be reached at imhofj@duq.edu