Pennsylvania
Sunday sworn in as state’s attorney general; DeFoor and Garrity take oath for second terms • Pennsylvania Capital-Star
Attorney General Dave Sunday took the oath of office on Tuesday, promising that he would protect and serve all Pennsylvanians regardless of background as he officially became the state’s top law enforcement official.
“My philosophy is rooted in two words: accountability and redemption,” Sunday said.
“We absolutely must hold criminals accountable,” Sunday added. “At the same time, we need to embrace redemption for those who have been held accountable and seek to better their lives.”
Sunday, who had served as the York County district attorney since 2018, defeated Democrat Eugene DePasquale, the state’s former two term auditor general, for the open race for the state’s attorney general office in November. The last time a Republican won the state’s attorney general race was Tom Corbett’s victory in 2008 over Democrat John Morganelli.
During his campaign, Sunday often touted the work his office did in York County to combat crime. He’s looking to bring that approach to the statewide office.
“I’m going to do everything in my power to emulate that type of work that we’ve done when we bring everyone to the table and look for the most positive outcomes humanly possible,” Sunday said.
He highlighted his journey from his high school graduation, which happened in the same room the swearing-in was taking place, Forum Auditorium, in the 1990s to his service in the Navy, working at UPS and serving as a prosecutor in York County.
“The concept of a team has been a constant in my life,” he said. “The best outcomes that I have ever seen have been accomplished through the spirit of collaboration and teamwork.”
He said citizens have the “absolute right” to demand safety and added that it’s incumbent upon his office to also focus on the root causes of crime, including access to mental health and combating the opioid epidemic. Noting that 95% of people who are incarcerated return to society, Sunday said there is a “power in employment” and pointed to specific bipartisan efforts such as the Clean Slate Law that was championed by then GOP state Sen. Scott Wagner and signed into law by then-Gov. Tom Wolf in 2018.
Sunday also said he’d support victims of human trafficking and ensure the state’s aging population is taken care of under his watch.
Prior to taking the oath of office, a pair of former Pennsylvania attorneys generals and governors, Josh Shapiro and Corbett, offered words of encouragement and advice to Sunday.
Shapiro, despite backing fellow Democrat DePasquale during the campaign, said it was an honor to be in attendance at the invitation of Sunday and said the two worked together when he was attorney general from 2017-2023 and Sunday was a district attorney in York County. Shapiro called himself a “longtime admirer” of Sunday during his speech on Tuesday.
“Pennsylvania needs someone like Dave who is grounded in integrity and something deeper than just the politics of a particular moment. That’s Dave Sunday.” Shapiro said. “And so I’m confident that Attorney General Sunday will pick up that baton from those who came before him and run forward with it, continuing to make progress.”
Corbett said that Sunday was assuming the office of attorney general in a “very unusual period of time in our history.”
“A very unsettled period of time, I think, when it comes to politics,” Corbett said. “And I would urge you to take the politics, as much as you possibly can, out of this.”
Corbett ended his speech with pointed advice for Sunday.
“Do the right thing.”
Garrity and DeFoor sworn-in for second terms
Treasurer Stacy Garrity and Auditor General Tim DeFoor also were sworn-in for second terms on Tuesday afternoon.
Garrity, a combat veteran and businesswoman, earned a second term by defeating Democratic challenger Erin McClelland and winning more votes than any other candidate for office in Pennsylvania history in November. In 2020, she defeated incumbent Treasurer Joe Torsella, a Democrat, in an outcome widely viewed as an upset.
“The position of treasurer might seem like a job defined by interest rates and algorithms, but it has a uniquely human side,” Garrity said. “We help Pennsylvanians save for education and disability-related expenses. We reconnect people with money they forgot about or never knew they had. We return precious military medals to the great veterans who earned them or to their families who sacrificed so much for our country.”
DeFoor secured a second term in November by defeating Democratic state Rep. Malcolm Kenyatta, of Philadelphia. DeFoor, who was Dauphin County controller, was first elected to the auditor general’s office in 2020 by defeating Democrat Nina Ahmad in the race for the open seat, making history by becoming the first person of color to win statewide office in Pennsylvania.
“That day was historic, not just for me, but for all Pennsylvanians,” DeFoor said. “As the first person of color to be elected to a statewide office in Pennsylvania, I understood that I am here because of those who have paved the way for me … those who fought for their freedoms and fought to make sure my freedoms were preserved.”
DeFoor added that “to them, I owe an enormous debt. A debt that I can only repay by living my life in a way that honors them.”
DeFoor said he will be a leader “who draws conclusions based on facts, not politics and serves the people of Pennsylvania by improving government, not tearing it down.”
Garrity and those who spoke before her, including Hugh Allen, her chief of staff who also served under Torsella, highlighted her office’s wide range of work on behalf of taxpayers, including returning unclaimed property and returning medals to military veterans. Jeff Bartos, a former GOP candidate for lieutenant governor, lauded Garrity for her office’s investments in Israel bonds days after the Oct. 7 attack by Hamas.
Garrity, a Bradford County resident, is the first person from rural Pennsylvania in more than 40 years to be elected to statewide office, also talked about the importance that farmers have driving the state’s economy.
DeFoor thanked his “staff of fantastic watchdogs,” and said his office has performed audits that have found ways to prevent fraud in the state lottery system, transform the way the department audits schools to ensure taxpayer dollars are being used properly, and a report on how pharmacy benefit managers were costing taxpayers. He also emphasized the importance of financial literacy awareness, saying he wants to ensure it is taught in every school as early as kindergarten.
Shapiro called Garrity “mission-driven… whether that was serving our nation in the military or serving as treasurer, where she’s worked to put money back in people’s pockets.”
Shapiro said DeFoor is a “serious public servant,” who has been “deliberative and thoughtful and serious leader no matter what position he has held.”
Shapiro on working with the row officers
With Sunday’s victory, and DeFoor and Garrity winning reelection, Republicans now occupy Pennsylvania’s three statewide row offices.
Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, Shapiro said that “we all have a really good working relationship,” and that “I expect that to continue.”
Per the Associated Press, this is the first time that the state’s three row offices will be occupied by Republicans at the same time. Shapiro, who is the only governor in the nation who works with a full-time divided legislature, said he received and maintains bipartisan support because of his focus on common sense efforts – safety, schools, economic opportunities, regardless of zip code, focus on freedom and liberty.
“I’m going to continue to work with Republicans and Democrats alike to do common sense things,” Shapiro told reporters.
During Shapiro’s time leading the attorney general’s office, he sued the Trump administration dozens of times.
When asked by reporters on Tuesday how Sunday, a Republican, should challenge Trump, he said that was up to him.
“General Sunday will run his office as he sees fit, engage in the litigation that he thinks is important to engage in,” Shapiro told reporters. “I’m not gonna get ahead of him or speak on his behalf.”
Capital-Star reporter Ian Karbal contributed.
West Caln Twp., Pa. (WPVI) — A Pennsylvania State Police Corporal was shot and killed in the line of duty in Chester County Sunday night.
Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro was joined by law enforcement officials outside of Paoli Hospital in paying tribute to Cpl. Timothy O’Connor.
Lt. Colonel George Bivens says O’Connor responded to a call to investigate an erratic driver just after 8 p.m. in Honey Brook.
O’Connor stopped that vehicle the intersection of Compass Road and Michael Road in West Caln Township.
Bivens says O’Connor made a radio call indicating the stop, but did not respond to calls to check on him.
Officers in the area immediately responded and found the situation investigators are calling murder-suicide.
Bivens says within seconds of approaching the stopped vehicle, the driver opened fire, killing O’Connor at the scene.
Investigators say the driver then got out of the vehicle and fatally shot himself.
Authorities tell Action News that officers responded to the scene when the trooper called for backup after shots were fired.
Bivens say O’Connor is a 15-year veteran of the Pennsylvania State Police.
He leaves behind a wife and young daughter.
Governor Shapiro has ordered flags to be flown at half-staff in honor of O’Connor.
Chester County District Christopher de Barrena-Sarobe says the county is assisting with the investigation.
Officials are not releasing the name of the suspect at this time, but say he is a 32-year-old man from Chester County.
They will now be investigating his background and motives, according to de Barrena-Sarobe.
Compass Road is closed between Hill and Lammey Roads as police continue with their investigation.
Copyright © 2026 WPVI-TV. All Rights Reserved.
Pennsylvania
New Jersey Overtakes Texas, California, Missouri, Florida, Pennsylvania, And Several Others, Cementing Itself As The Fastest-Growing U.S. State For Hotel Tourism And Revenue Growth In 2026 With Record Tourist Arrivals And Tech Investments – Travel And Tour World
Published on
March 8, 2026
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New Jersey Overtakes Texas, California, Missouri, Florida, Pennsylvania, and Many More, Cementing Itself as the Leading U.S. Destination for Hotel Tourism and Revenue Growth in 2026 with Record-Breaking Arrivals and Advanced Technologies. This remarkable achievement comes as New Jersey strategically invests in cutting-edge technology, expands its tourism infrastructure, and provides a seamless visitor experience that is unmatched in the U.S. From the surge in hotel bookings to the influx of tourists flocking to Atlantic City and Hoboken, New Jersey has rapidly evolved into a top destination, outpacing the traditionally dominant tourism states like Texas and California, setting the stage for a transformative year in 2026.
In 2026, the United States stands on the brink of a significant shift in its tourism landscape. While cities and states across the nation traditionally contend for the lion’s share of hotel bookings and tourism revenue, a new leader has emerged. New Jersey is outpacing established tourism powerhouses like Texas, California, Missouri, Florida, and Pennsylvania, cementing itself as the go-to destination for visitors in 2026. This transformation is driven by record-breaking visitor arrivals, the state’s technological innovations, and its strategic focus on boosting hotel tourism and economic growth.
Let’s take a deep dive into the states that have historically been major players in U.S. tourism and see how New Jersey is reshaping the industry in 2026. From cutting-edge technologies to unprecedented arrivals, this article explores the factors driving New Jersey’s rise to the top, along with a detailed look at how other states are evolving in the tourism sector.
New Jersey: The Rising Star in Hotel Tourism
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New Jersey has been quietly growing its tourism appeal for years. But in 2026, the state’s hotel tourism and revenue growth have exploded, surpassing even the big players in the hospitality and tourism market. Several factors have played a role in this remarkable shift:
Record-Breaking Arrivals
New Jersey has witnessed unprecedented growth in visitor numbers in recent years, with 2026 expected to be a banner year. According to industry reports, international and domestic tourism to New Jersey is set to increase by nearly 25% compared to previous years. This surge is primarily driven by the state’s close proximity to New York City, which continues to be one of the world’s top tourist destinations.
Advanced Technology Integration
New Jersey’s adoption of innovative technologies in its tourism infrastructure has set it apart. The state has heavily invested in smart tourism solutions, including AI-driven hotel booking systems, personalized visitor experiences, and digital concierge services. These technological advancements have created a seamless travel experience for visitors, making New Jersey a preferred destination for both business and leisure tourists.
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Strategic Investments in Hospitality
The state has also invested heavily in its hospitality sector, including luxury hotel developments, high-end restaurants, and state-of-the-art convention centers. This commitment to enhancing the visitor experience has made New Jersey one of the most sought-after destinations for corporate meetings, events, and large-scale conferences.
Key Tourism Hotspots
Tourism destinations such as Atlantic City, Hoboken, and Princeton are seeing significant growth in hotel bookings. These cities are benefiting from the surge in tourists looking for high-quality accommodations and entertainment options while enjoying New Jersey’s scenic views and rich cultural history.
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Texas: A Hospitality Powerhouse with Room for Growth
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While New Jersey may be leading the charge, Texas remains a powerhouse in U.S. tourism. The state’s reputation for vibrant culture, southern hospitality, and dynamic cities like Austin, Dallas, and Houston keeps it at the forefront of tourism in America.
Dynamic Hotel Demand in Major Cities
Texas’ major cities are witnessing a strong demand for hotel rooms across various market segments. From luxury hotels to boutique accommodations, travelers are flocking to the state, driven by events like the Texas State Fair and major conventions. Hotel bookings in Austin and Dallas are at historically high levels, making them top contenders in the tourism industry.
Room for Growth in Regional Tourism
Despite Texas’ robust tourism infrastructure, it faces challenges when it comes to regional tourism growth. Some parts of Texas, especially in rural areas, are still working to attract visitors and increase hotel bookings outside of the urban core. While these regions benefit from oil industry tourism and business travelers, more effort is needed to enhance the overall tourism experience to match states like New Jersey that have innovated more quickly.
California: The Golden State’s Hospitality and Tourism Boom
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California has long been a frontrunner in U.S. tourism, thanks to its iconic landmarks, beaches, and cultural centers like Los Angeles and San Francisco. However, in 2026, it is facing stiff competition from New Jersey and other rising stars in the industry.
Tourism-Fueled Revenue Growth
California remains a tourism magnet, attracting millions of visitors every year. Hotel revenue in cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles continues to grow, but the state’s heavy reliance on international tourists—especially from Asia and Europe—has made it vulnerable to global political and economic fluctuations.
The Struggle with Overcrowding
California is grappling with overcrowded tourist spots such as Venice Beach and Yosemite National Park, which has affected the quality of visitor experience. In contrast, New Jersey has managed to spread tourism across its cities and regions, offering a more accessible and less congested experience.
Missouri: St. Louis and Kansas City Driving Hotel Growth
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Missouri has traditionally been a mid-tier destination for U.S. travelers, but in 2026, Kansas City and St. Louis are seeing hotel tourism growth fueled by both leisure and business travelers.
Kansas City’s Rapid Growth
Kansas City has emerged as a rising star in the Midwest, with its growing convention scene, vibrant music culture, and increasing interest in its sports teams. The city has seen hotel bookings spike during major events such as the World Series and NCAA tournaments, helping to raise the state’s tourism profile.
St. Louis’ Continued Reinvention
St. Louis, with its iconic Gateway Arch and upcoming development projects, is also benefiting from a renewed focus on tourism. However, the state as a whole still lags behind more established tourist destinations like New Jersey, which has been quicker to embrace new technologies and large-scale investments in tourism infrastructure.
Florida: The Sunshine State Faces New Challenges
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As one of the most well-known tourism hubs in the United States, Florida faces both tremendous opportunities and significant challenges in 2026.
Orlando’s Undying Popularity
Orlando continues to dominate as Florida’s top tourist destination thanks to its theme parks like Walt Disney World and Universal Studios. The hotel tourism sector in Orlando is thriving, with new hotels and resorts opening regularly to accommodate the millions of visitors flocking to the theme parks.
Miami’s Competitive Edge
Miami remains a leading destination for luxury tourism and beach vacations, with hotel bookings reaching new heights in 2026. However, Florida’s hotel industry is facing increasing competition from states like New Jersey that offer less crowded environments, lower hotel rates, and a growing array of luxury options.
Pennsylvania: Historic Cities and Tourism Investment
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Pennsylvania is home to Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, and Hershey, which have long been central to the state’s tourism revenue. While Pennsylvania is still a popular destination, it’s falling behind as other states, like New Jersey, are aggressively boosting tourism infrastructure.
Philadelphia’s Hotel Tourism
Philadelphia remains a key destination for history lovers and cultural enthusiasts. Hotel demand is strong around historical landmarks like the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, but competition from New Jersey’s Atlantic City and Hoboken is driving down hotel prices in the area.
Pittsburgh’s Emerging Appeal
Pittsburgh is gaining ground as a cultural destination, thanks to new arts initiatives and a thriving sports scene. However, like many states in the Northeast, Pennsylvania is struggling to keep up with the technology-driven tourism experiences that places like New Jersey offer, making it a secondary player in the hotel industry.
Looking Ahead: New Jersey’s Future in Hotel Tourism
The shift toward New Jersey’s hotel tourism dominance is clear, but the road ahead remains full of potential for other U.S. states as well. While Texas, California, Missouri, Florida, and Pennsylvania remain significant players, New Jersey’s strategic investments in smart technologies, its expanded tourism offerings, and its ability to attract record-breaking arrivals in 2026 will set a new standard in the industry.
States and cities across the country will need to embrace cutting-edge innovations, increase their tourism infrastructure investments, and enhance the overall visitor experience to stay competitive in a rapidly changing tourism landscape.
As New Jersey continues to rise as the go-to U.S. destination for hotel tourism, its journey provides a model for other states looking to boost revenue growth and solidify their place on the global tourism map.
New Jersey Overtakes Texas, California, Missouri, Florida, Pennsylvania, and Many More, Cementing Itself as the Leading U.S. Destination for Hotel Tourism and Revenue Growth in 2026 with Record-Breaking Arrivals and Advanced Technologies. This growth is driven by the state’s innovative use of advanced technology, strategic investments in tourism infrastructure, and a surge in both domestic and international visitors, making it the new hotspot for travelers in 2026.
With its technological innovations, unprecedented visitor arrivals, and strategic focus on hotel tourism growth, New Jersey is poised to outshine even the most established tourism markets in the United States. As we look ahead to 2026, New Jersey’s story serves as a reminder that success in the tourism industry isn’t just about historical landmarks or cultural significance—it’s about adapting, innovating, and providing an unmatched experience for visitors.
A pair of hikers discovered human remains on Friday in Ridley Creek State Park in Delaware County, Pennsylvania, state police say.
Authorities said two hikers called 911 at 12:30 p.m. after finding what they believed were human remains near 71 Chapel Hill Road inside the park.
Upper Providence Township police and state police responded to the scene and requested assistance from the Delaware County Medical Examiner’s Office. The examiner’s office recovered the remains and confirmed they were human.
Officials said the investigation is being conducted by Upper Providence Township police and Pennsylvania State Police.
It is unclear who the remains belong to or how long they may have been in the area.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Pennsylvania State Police Criminal Investigation Unit at 484-840-1000.
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