Commonwealth Foundation

Unfortunately for the people of the commonwealth, Gov. Josh Shapiro has openly embraced government shutdowns—both in Washington, D.C., and Harrisburg. Not only is Pennsylvania the only state in the union without an enacted budget, but the governor is also publicly cheering for continued dysfunction at the federal level. While addressing the federal shutdown on a prominent national podcast, Shapiro asked, “Why the hell should the Democrats give up their vote for nothing?” During the same interview, the governor said that he’s “all in” with the U.S. Senate Democrats—with the notable exception of U.S. Sen. John Fetterman—and their intransigence, which is keeping the federal government shuttered. Doing the right thing seems to be a rare political commodity these days, so it’s refreshing to see whenever a lawmaker does it. Case in point: John Fetterman. I commend Sen. Fetterman for calling fellow Democrats “hypocritical” for defending filibuster rules that have enabled them to keep Republicans from reaching the 60-vote threshold needed to pass legislation reopening the government. “In that cycle that I ran, all of us ran on getting rid of the filibuster to enact exactly parts of our agenda,” Fetterman told a news program of The Hill. “And now we can’t pretend that we love it or pretend we just were in a much different situation just a couple years ago.” Fetterman’s work with Republican U.S. Sen. Dave McCormick — especially their bipartisan efforts to end the government shutdown — is admirable. Read more from our COO and General Counsel Megan Martin.

Let's strengthen Pennsylvania's economy by unleashing our state's energy resources! Our COO and General Counsel Megan Martin joined Bryan Wright, President & SVP of Constellation Projects & Services division, and Stephanie Wissman, Executive Director, American Petroleum Institute of Pennsylvania, for a wide ranging discussion at Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania. Thanks to everyone who turned out!

Every child deserves a chance to learn, dream, and thrive. In a new op-ed, our COO and General Counsel Megan Martin shares her powerful visit to Imani Christian Academy in Pittsburgh — a school that is so much more than a place of learning. Imani is a sanctuary of hope. Every student goes on to college, vocational training, or another post-secondary path — a 100% success rate made possible through Pennsylvania’s school choice programs (EITC and OSTC). But these programs can’t meet the growing demand. Tens of thousands of students remain on waitlists, hoping for the same opportunity. That’s why the new Educational Choice for Children Act (ECCA) is so important. It expands opportunity by allowing private donations to fund scholarships — helping more low- and middle-income families find the education that fits their child best. Pennsylvania can’t afford to leave kids waiting. Let's opt into ECCA and deliver on the promise of educational freedom for every student! 📖 Read Megan’s full piece at the link in the comments. #SchoolChoice #EducationalChoice #EducationFreedom

Next month, Commonwealth Foundation will join the 5th annual Givers, Doers, & Thinkers Conference in Philadelphia. You can be there too! Let's come together to discuss civil society's role in strengthening our country ahead of America's 250th birthday. Use discount code CIVILSOCIETY for 15% off your registration. See you in Philly!

📺 🎬 Our new television ad just went live! Airing over the weekend on a variety of public affairs programs across major Pennsylvania media markets, the ad calls on Gov. Josh Shapiro to end the state budget impasse by getting to work negotiating a bipartisan, fiscally responsible compromise that protects Pennsylvania taxpayers. More details and our statement at the link in the comments.

Looking for a career where you can make a real impact? Join the team bringing more opportunity and prosperity to Pennsylvania! Commonwealth Foundation is looking for an executive assistant to support our Chief Operating Officer and General Counsel. This role will serve as a vital force in driving efficiency, organization, and professionalism. Learn more, including how to apply, at the link in the comments.

On Tuesday morning, our COO & General Counsel Megan Martin joined U.S. Senator David McCormick, Pennsylvania Senator Judy Ward, and Invest in Ed to discuss the Educational Choice for Children Act and the future of school choice in Pennsylvania! Check out this update from Megan, and look for photos in the comments.

Come work with us to help bring more opportunity and prosperity to Pennsylvania! Commonwealth Foundation is looking for a Director of the Executive Office of the CEO. This is a senior-level role responsible for maximizing the effectiveness, external impact, and relationship stewardship of the CEO. This position ensures the CEO’s time and engagements align with organizational priorities and that the stewardship of critical stakeholders—including top donors, policymakers, and allied partners—happens consistently and strategically. Learn more, including how to apply, at the link in the comments.

Blue-state governors are on high alert these days, fearing that President Donald Trump will send federal troops to address the rampant crime ravaging their constituents. But these very same governors—many of whom have presidential ambitions for 2028—have ignored violence in not only their major urban centers but also their public schools. While they eye higher office, Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, Maryland Gov. Wes Moore, Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker, and California Gov. Gavin Newsom have all abdicated their responsibility to protect students in their respective states. Andrew Lewis takes a closer look at "persistently dangerous schools" and the politicians ignoring them. Link below in the comments.