Published: April 17, 2025 | Jewish Digital Times
Governor Josh Shapiro Condemns Arson Attack on His Residence: “This Was an Attack on All of Pennsylvania”
HARRISBURG, PA — In the early hours of April 13, 2025, an arson attack was carried out against the official residence of Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, a prominent Jewish leader and vocal supporter of Israel. The attack occurred shortly after a Passover celebration hosted at the mansion.
The suspect, 38-year-old Cody Balmer, is alleged to have scaled the mansion’s perimeter, broken windows, and thrown multiple Molotov cocktails into the building while the governor, his family, and guests were inside. Fortunately, no injuries were reported. Balmer has since been arrested and faces charges including attempted homicide, terrorism, arson, and burglary.
🛡️ Antisemitism Under Investigation
Authorities are investigating Balmer’s motives, including potential links to antisemitic beliefs and political extremism. Governor Shapiro’s open identity as a Jewish leader and his public stance on the Israel-Gaza conflict are believed to have contributed to the targeting.
🎙️ Shapiro Speaks Out
At a press conference following the attack, Shapiro said: “This was not just an attack on my family — this was an attack on the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.”
He went on to add, “This type of violence is not okay — from any side. We must all stand against hate.”
📺 Video Coverage
▶️ Newsweek Coverage: Governor Shapiro addresses the incident, calling for unity and rejecting political violence.
Watch on YouTube
🏛️ Security & Community Reactions
State and federal investigators are working jointly to examine Balmer’s mental health, online behavior, and any ties to extremist groups. Community leaders, both Jewish and interfaith, have condemned the attack and are calling for enhanced security for public officials and religious institutions.
The Jewish Digital Times echoes the governor’s call for peace, unity, and resilience in the face of hate-fueled violence. We proudly stand with Governor Shapiro and with all communities that champion justice, tolerance, and truth.
🧱 Community and Government Response
State and federal investigators are working jointly to examine Balmer’s mental health, online behavior, and any ties to extremist groups. Jewish leaders have denounced the attack as another chilling reminder of rising antisemitism in America — a trend increasingly recognized by both civic and legal voices.
Earlier this week, Yehuda Kaploun was nominated by former President Trump as the U.S. envoy to monitor and combat antisemitism, signaling increased federal attention to Jewish safety worldwide.
Similarly, Judge Matthew H. Solomson’s historic appointment as the first Orthodox Jewish Chief Judge of a U.S. federal court has drawn praise from across the Jewish community for championing ethics and visibility in public life.
As these developments unfold, the Jewish Digital Times continues to monitor and report on threats and triumphs facing our communities with unwavering dedication to truth, safety, and resilience.
