In the days following an arson attack at the Governor’s Residence in Harrisburg, Shapiro called for an end to political violence, saying, “This is not ok. This level of violence has to end, and it has to be roundly condemned by everyone.”

Meuser condemned the violence, calling the arson attack “disgraceful” on a radio talk show. He also offered comments suggesting Shapiro is to blame for heightening political discourse.

“Hearts go out to the Shapiro family on this, but, you know, they have to tone it down too,” said Meuser. “I mean, every action Josh Shapiro has taken so far against the President has either been a lawsuit or a falsehood.”

Shapiro, appearing to be unaware of Meuser’s comments when asked to respond during a press event Wednesday afternoon in Hershey, replied, “He said that?”

After a brief pause, Shapiro reacted, saying, “Look, I’ve said for years, leaders have a responsibility to speak and to act with moral clarity. It would appear the Congressman failed to measure up to that.”

Meuser, a four-term Congressman representing all or parts of 12 counties from Lebanon to Bradford, said in January he’s seriously considering a run for Governor in 2026.

A staunch supporter of President Donald Trump, Meuser has previous experience in Harrisburg as the state’s Secretary of Revenue under Governor Tom Corbett. Prior to serving in public office, Meuser was the president of a motorized wheelchair manufacturing company in northeastern Pennsylvania.

The Congressman is not the only Republican considering a run against Shapiro next November. State Senator Doug Mastriano says he is considering a second run for Governor after losing to Shapiro in 2022.

State Treasurer Stacy Garrity last week teased a potential gubernatorial run, saying she is “listening” and “ready to do what’s necessary to help (her) team win.”

Garrity said earlier this year, “I didn’t say no, but I didn’t say yes” to running.