What Are Montco Legislators Saying About Gov. Shapiro Attack?

Updated: 1:53 p.m. Monday

EASTERN MONTGOMERY COUNTY, PA — Local legislators are reacting to the arson at the Governor's Mansion in Harrisburg on Saturday, saying they are grateful that the family of Gov. Josh Shapiro — who lives in Abington — was not harmed.

Shapiro, who is Jewish, had just celebrated a seder for Passover, which kicked off at sundown on Saturday.

"The recent attack on Gov. Shapiro's residence is appalling and an atrocious act against not only the governor but the entire Commonwealth," said State Rep. Nancy Guenst, whose territory covers Hatboro and a section of Abington Township. "This type of behavior simply cannot be tolerated. I am grateful to the PA State Police, the Capitol Law enforcement, and all of the first responders whose swift action helped keep the families within the house safe from harm. No single person in this country should have to live in fear. My thoughts and prayers go out to Gov. Shapiro and his entire family. We must do better."

A suspect is in custody for lighting two devices, empty beer bottles filled with gas, that were thrown into two windows of the mansion while the family was sleeping.

"I am horrified by the violent attack and fire at the Governor’s Residence — and relieved to know that Gov. Shapiro and his wife and family were rescued to safety in the middle of the night, said U.S. Rep. Madeleine Dean, whose office is in Glenside.

"Last night (Saturday) and tonight, thousands of Jewish Pennsylvanians, including the Shapiro family, gathered to celebrate Passover," Dean said. "Whether or not it was the assailant’s intent to target the Jewish community, the timing of this horrific attack strikes fear into the hearts of Jewish families — which I will always condemn. As the Governor said today, this violence is unacceptable."

Shapiro, 52, grew up in Upper Dublin Township, where his parents still reside. He was elected as the state's Attorney General before becoming governor.

"I am deeply shocked and outraged by the recent arson attack and attempted murder targeting Governor Josh Shapiro and his family," said State Rep. Melissa Cerrato, who covers Upper Dublin and Horsham townships. "Violence has no place in our society, and this heinous act is a stark reminder of the urgent need to stand united against hate and extremism. I am grateful that the Governor and his family are safe, and I commend the swift actions of law enforcement and first responders. Let us all work together to build a community where such acts of terror are unthinkable."

State Rep. Ben Sanchez, who covers Abington and Upper Dublin townships, said he was "shocked and saddened" to learn about the attack.

"This kind of violence is becoming far too common in our society," Sanchez said. "This disturbing display of hate took place hours after the first family and their guests celebrated the first night of the Jewish holiday of Passover, which, with intention or not, made this news even more heartbreaking.

Sanchez said he reached out to Shapiro and the First Lady and was grateful to hear of the quick actions taken by the Capital and State Police, first responders, and staff in the residence who kept the First Family safe during this horrendous situation.

"Pennsylvania is better than this incident," Sanchez said. "We must strive to be home to religious freedom, common ground, respect, and safety for our citizens. We are a commonwealth - for and by the people. My thoughts are with the Governor and his family as he navigates through this time and moves forward, and I am incredibly thankful that no one was hurt by this senseless act."

The Abington Township Police Department also commented about the incident on Monday.

"The Abington Township Police Department stands with Gov. Josh Shapiro and his family against this senseless act of political violence," the police department said. "The Shapiros are not just public figures — they are part of our community. They are our neighbors, our friends, and part of what makes Abington the strong community it is. We are deeply grateful that no one was harmed and that the suspect is in custody. Our hearts are with the Governor, Lori, and their children. Please keep the entire Shapiro family in your prayers."

Members of Shapiro's synagogue in Elkins Park, also spoke out about the attack.

"It's horrible, people doing stuff like this. We as a synagogue, we stand with their family and we support them," Cantor Jacob Agar told Action News 6.