Shapiro names longtime aide Dana Fritz as chief of staff

Dana Fritz, a longtime aide to Gov.-elect Josh Shapiro, will oversee his administration as chief of staff, Shapiro announced Thursday.

Fritz has worked with Shapiro since his time as a Montgomery County commissioner and served as deputy chief of staff under Shapiro in the attorney general’s office.

As Shapiro’s top advisor and staff member, Fritz will be responsible for assembling a “diverse, experienced and talented” staff to begin working to accomplish Shapiro and Lt. Gov.-elect Austin Davis’ top goals.

Shapiro described Fritz as an “incredibly talented leader and committed public servant.”

“Dana’s leadership skills, knowledge of the commonwealth, and sharp instincts are unmatched – and I have complete confidence in her ability to lead our administration and help move Pennsylvania forward,” Shapiro said. 

Fritz said in a statement that serving Pennsylvania in the governor’s office will be the honor of a lifetime. 

“I am humbled by this opportunity – and I look forward to building a hard-working, capable Administration that represents our Commonwealth as we work to grow an economy that works for all, ensure every child receives a quality education, and make communities across Pennsylvania safer,” Fritz said.

Fritz grew up in Coplay, Lehigh County, and graduated from Temple University. She started her career working for the Democratic Party and U.S. Sen. Bob Casey’s, D-Pa., 2012 re-election campaign.

She then worked for Shapiro managing finance and political efforts when Shapiro was a county commissioner. Fritz followed him to the attorney general’s office as deputy chief of staff and communications director.

Fritz left the office in 2020 to serve as manager of Shapiro’s successful campaign for governor this year.