Ciarrocchi to run for governor
He will leave position as president of Chester County chamber
Guy Ciarrocchi, president and CEO of the Chester County Chamber of Commerce, announced his intention to run for governor of Pennsylvania, saying the state’s economy needs a boost.
Ciarrocchi, a Republican who lives in Paoli, has led the chamber for the past eight years and is taking a leave of absence to begin his campaign.
“Tom Wolf’s solutions (to the pandemic) killed many of our businesses,” Ciarrocchi said. “It’s clear that the powers in Harrisburg and Washington just don’t care about our local businesses, their employees or our families. Instead, they are far more concerned about embracing the radical left. They crushed small businesses, harmed our students, and let our cities burn. I won’t be silent in the fight for our freedoms. It’s time we have leaders who put the people first.”
Ciarrocchi, 56, joins a crowded field of Republicans running for governor including former U.S. Attorney Bill McSwain, former U.S. Rep. Lou Barletta, and state Sens. Doug Mastriano, Scott Martin, and Dan Laughlin.
Democratic Gov. Tom Wolf, in his second term, cannot seek reelection next year.
“If we can reopen local businesses and help them grow and make sure there
are good quality school choices for all kids across the state — those two things alone could change the complexion of our economy and our quality of life overnight,” Ciarrocchi said, adding that his focus would be on the economy if elected.
Largely due to Chester County’s jobless rate going from 2.9 percent to 11.9 percent during the pandemic, Ciarrocchi supported an effort, and led a grassroots challenge, to impose restrictions on a governor’s authority under an emergency disaster declaration.
Thom Chiomento, Board Chairman of the chamber, said Ciarrocchi did much for Chester County’s economy.
“Our board is proud of Guy’s work while serving as our CEO; moreover, it speaks volumes about Guy and the work of our Chamber that he is pursuing this important office,” he said.
During Ciarrocchi’s tenure the Chamber became one of the leading voices for economic development not only in the Philadelphia region, but
across Pennsylvania. And, working with the board, the Annual Awards Celebration — held each November at Longwood Gardens — has grown to become one of the region’s “must-attend” events.
“Guy’s leadership was on full display to our members and to small business owners, employees and citizens across our County and the state throughout the COVID-era and during the successful #VoteYes campaign,” said David Hackett, incoming Board Chair. “Our board and staff are fully-committed and have a plan in place to ensure
the Chamber continues to provide excellent service, engagement and programming for members during Guy’s leave of absence.”
Ciarrocchi led former President George W. Bush’s 2004 reelection campaign in Pennsylvania. His first campaign stop was in Allegheny County Monday afternoon.
“I’m optimistic,” Ciarrocchi said. “No one has ever accused me of being lazy. This is a challenge. There is no household name in this race, there is no clear leader. I am far more optimistic because of the networks I have.”
“I’m optimistic. No one has ever accused me of being lazy. This is a challenge. There is no household name in this race, there is no clear leader. I am far more optimistic because of the networks I have.”
— Guy Ciarrocchi