News & Politics
Horror, relief and support: Social media reactions to arson attack on Gov. Shapiro and family
Social media condemnation of the arson attack that could have claimed the lives of Shapiro and his family was widespread and bipartisan, both across the commonwealth and the nation.
Gov. Josh Shapiro speaks during a press conference outside of the Governor's Mansion after a portion of the property was damaged in an arson fire on April 13, 2025 in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. Shapiro and his family escaped unharmed and police have a suspect, Cody Balmer, in custody. Matthew Hatcher/Getty Images
As more details come out regarding the unprecedented arson attack on Gov. Josh Shapiro and his family at the governor’s mansion early Sunday morning, including the arrest of 38-year-old Cody Balmer, of Harrisburg, for setting the fire inside the residence, words of support, outrage and disbelief continued to ricochet across X and Bluesky from Democratic and Republican elected officials across the commonwealth and the country. Below is a sampling of sentiment.
U.S. Sen. John Fetterman:
U.S. Sen. Dave McCormick:
U.S. Rep. Rob Bresnahan:
U.S. Rep. Brendan Boyle:
State Senate President Pro Tempore Kim Ward:
State Sen. Vincent Hughes:
State House Speaker Joanna McClinton:
State House Republicans:
State Attorney General Dave Sunday:
California Gov. Gavin Newsom:
U.S. Sen. Amy Klobuchar:
U.S. Rep. Andy Kim: