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Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro has issued an executive order aimed at filling critical vacancies in the state's workforce while also recruiting talent from the private sector. The move comes as the federal government undergoes scrutiny and potential staff reductions under the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) initiative.

Shapiro signed the order during a job fair at the state's Farm Show complex in Harrisburg, emphasizing the need for a robust public service workforce. "The commonwealth recognizes that a workforce of dedicated and talented public servants is the backbone of a responsive government," Shapiro stated, adding that efficient delivery of services is essential for Pennsylvanians.

The order seeks to leverage federal layoffs by equating federal work experience with state-level qualifications, a move that seems as much about opportunity as it is about optics. It also prioritizes hiring veterans and military servicemembers, while publicizing the 23 most challenging roles to fill within the state’s government. It's what you'd call a "win-win"—unless you're skeptical of government expansion, of course.

Pennsylvania Secretary of Administration Neil Weaver highlighted the compatibility between federal and state jobs, stating that federal workers bring professional expertise that aligns with the state's needs. "This executive order will help individuals with federal work experience continue their public service careers and put their skills to work for the people of Pennsylvania," Weaver said.

Shapiro’s efforts extend beyond public sector roles. The day before the order was signed, he met with private-sector leaders in Pittsburgh to discuss boosting western Pennsylvania’s economy. At the Allegheny Conference on Community Development, he pitched his energy "lightning plan"—a strategy to create jobs while reducing energy costs. Shapiro’s remark that Pennsylvania hasn’t made meaningful advances in energy generation since the Rendell administration was a not-so-subtle nudge to get the state moving again.

Adding a sprinkle of tech drama, Shapiro recently held a phone call with Elon Musk, discussing potential investments in Pennsylvania. No politics, just business—allegedly.

However, not everyone is cheering Shapiro’s initiative. Critics from the GOP, including State Rep. Jesse Topper, argue that filling government vacancies shouldn’t be the default. "When a job becomes vacant in Pennsylvania’s administrative apparatus, the question should first be asked if it is truly needed," Topper said, advocating for fiscal discipline over bureaucratic expansion.

State Sen. Doug Mastriano, a potential opponent in 2026, was even harsher, accusing Shapiro of "grandstanding" and pushing unsustainable policies. "He's already proposed an unsustainable, job-killing $51 billion budget, and now he wants to continue his spending spree," Mastriano claimed, warning of economic consequences for Pennsylvania families.

The criticism underscores a broader ideological clash: Shapiro’s strategy focuses on strengthening both public and private sectors, while conservatives worry about ballooning government and fiscal irresponsibility. Somewhere in the middle, Pennsylvanians are left wondering whether this is a forward-thinking recruitment plan or just political maneuvering disguised as job creation.