The National 250th Anniversary States Fair was a once-in-a-generation opportunity for states to showcase their history, culture, tourism, businesses, and economic opportunities to millions of Americans celebrating our nation’s founding. Many states recognized the value of this event and eagerly participated.

Pennsylvania did not.

I believe Governor Josh Shapiro made a serious mistake by refusing to have Pennsylvania participate. The Commonwealth had an opportunity to promote tourism, attract visitors, support local businesses, and highlight the many historical sites that played a central role in America’s founding. Instead, that opportunity was lost.

Pennsylvania is the Keystone State and the birthplace of American democracy. If any state should have been proudly represented at a national celebration of America’s 250th anniversary, it should have been Pennsylvania.

I believe this decision was driven more by politics than by what was best for the people of Pennsylvania. Public officials are elected to serve all citizens, not to allow political disagreements to stand in the way of opportunities that could benefit the Commonwealth. Personal feelings and partisan politics should never come before promoting Pennsylvania’s economy, tourism industry, and historical significance.

The result is that Pennsylvania businesses, tourism agencies, and communities lost valuable exposure on a national stage. At a time when states are competing for visitors and economic growth, turning down such an opportunity makes little sense.

Pennsylvanians deserve leadership that puts the interests of the Commonwealth first. When an event celebrates America’s heritage and offers the chance to showcase Pennsylvania to the nation, our Commonwealth should be front and center–not absent.

It is my understanding that Pennsylvania’s two U.S. Senators, John Fetterman and Dave McCormick, are working together to help Pennsylvania take advantage of this missed opportunity. In an era of intense political division, it is encouraging to see a Democrat and a Republican putting Pennsylvania first. Their bipartisan effort demonstrates the kind of common-sense leadership that Pennsylvanians deserve and highlights what can be accomplished when public officials focus on the interests of the Commonwealth rather than partisan politics.

ROBERT and ANN BURNS

JAMES and DONNA SORTMAN

Old Lycoming Township

Submitted by email