Shapiro's Memoir Omits Key Details About His Time as Pennsylvania AG

The governor's new book touts his record on criminal justice reform, but glosses over controversies around pardons and police accountability.

Feb. 4, 2026 at 9:07am

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In his new memoir, Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro highlights his work as the state's former attorney general, touting his ability to balance law and order with criminal justice reform. However, the book leaves out key details about his record on commutations and pardons, as well as problems with one of his most-touted police accountability initiatives.

Why it matters

Shapiro is widely expected to run for president in 2028, and his time as attorney general is a central part of his political brand. The omissions in his memoir raise questions about how he presents his record and could impact his future political aspirations.

The details

The memoir glosses over Shapiro's voting record on the state's Board of Pardons, where he clashed with then-Lt. Gov. John Fetterman over commutations. Shapiro was more cautious in approving clemency cases than Fetterman. As governor, Shapiro has also signed about half the clemency applications recommended by the board, compared to his predecessor granting nearly all. The book also touts Shapiro's push for a statewide police misconduct database, but fails to mention that the database is riddled with loopholes that limit its effectiveness. Additionally, the memoir highlights Shapiro's prosecution of a major construction contractor, Glenn O. Hawbaker, for siphoning employee benefits, but does not mention that Hawbaker's company has continued to receive over $300 million in state contracts under Shapiro's administration.

  • In 2019, the Board of Pardons voted on 41 commutations, the largest number in decades.
  • Shapiro became Pennsylvania's governor in January 2023.

The players

Josh Shapiro

The Democratic governor of Pennsylvania who previously served as the state's attorney general. He is widely expected to run for president in 2028.

John Fetterman

The Democratic U.S. senator from Pennsylvania who previously served as the state's lieutenant governor and was a member of the Board of Pardons alongside Shapiro.

Glenn O. Hawbaker

A major Pennsylvania construction contractor who was accused by Shapiro's office of siphoning millions of dollars in retirement and health benefits from its employees.

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What they’re saying

“'Shapiro was far more cautious, and at a certain point, I began to think that what was influencing him was not mere caution but political ambition.'”

— John Fetterman, U.S. Senator (Unfettered)

What’s next

Shapiro's record as attorney general and his approach to criminal justice issues will likely face increased scrutiny as he is expected to run for president in 2028.

The takeaway

Shapiro's memoir presents a selective account of his time as Pennsylvania's attorney general, omitting controversies and problems that could undermine his image as a balanced leader on criminal justice reform. These omissions raise questions about how Shapiro portrays his record for political gain.