“The things that truly last when men and things have passed,They are all in Pennsylvania this morning.” – Rudyard Kipling in “Philadelphia.”
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When it comes to national politics, Pennsylvania has often found itself on the sidelines. Despite being at the center of some key historical moments, the state’s political figures have failed to gain the same recognition and influence as those from other states.
Throughout American history, Pennsylvania, once a prominent state, and Philadelphia, once a major city, have struggled to make a lasting impact on national politics. Even James Buchanan, Pennsylvania’s only President, is remembered more for his failures than his successes, particularly for his inaction during the lead up to the Civil War.
Despite Pennsylvania’s significant number of electoral votes, the state’s governors and senators have often been overlooked in national politics. The state, once a Republican stronghold, has seen a shift in recent years with only one Republican presidential win since 1960.
While Pennsylvania has produced some influential figures like Boies Penrose, whose political influence extended beyond the state’s borders, the state has yet to produce a major presidential or vice-presidential candidate in recent history.
Historically, Pennsylvania’s loss of economic and political power to other states, such as New York, has contributed to its diminished national significance. The state’s once-strong industrial and economic sectors failed to translate into political influence on a national level.
Additionally, the state’s sense of inferiority, compared to New York, and the prominence of institutions like Yale and Harvard over the University of Pennsylvania have further impacted its national standing.
Despite Pennsylvania’s storied history and contributions to the nation, its political figures have struggled to make a mark on the national stage. The recent rejection of Governor Josh Shapiro for the vice-presidency nomination is just another example of the state’s ongoing struggle for political relevance.
John P. Rossi is Emeritus Professor of History at La Salle University.