The Complex Reality of Economic Change in Allentown
By John King, CNN
In Allentown, Pennsylvania, the sentiments of voters like Todd Harder encapsulate the tension of contemporary American political and economic landscapes. Harder, a small business owner, represents a slice of the electorate that once saw hope in Donald Trump’s promises for an American manufacturing renaissance but now views the reality with skepticism.
Disillusionment with Promises
Harder is the owner of ProDart, a company that manufactures handcrafted wooden darts and dartboards in an industrial park in Allentown. Despite his initial support for Trump, he expresses doubts about the tangible benefits of the president’s trade policies. He notes that the tariffs and aggressive trade rhetoric intended to stimulate factories have instead contributed to financial strain for many businesses, including his own, where workforce numbers have dwindled from fourteen to five employees.
“Money is tight. People are complaining that rent is really high,” Harder remarks, reflecting a broader concern about economic constraints that affect consumer confidence. Rather than viewing Trump’s presidency as a panacea for past woes, he offers a cautious assessment of the situation, suggesting a score of “six to a seven” on the state of the economy after four months of Trump’s renewed term.
A Historical Lens on Manufacturing
The Lehigh Valley, where Allentown is situated, has a storied history in American manufacturing, once hosting giants like Bethlehem Steel and Western Electric. Over the decades, the region has witnessed a dramatic decline in factory jobs, from over 66,000 in 1990 to a stark low of 35,000 around 2011. Although there has been a slight recovery in jobs, reaching 41,000 by the end of 2024, growth has stagnated since Trump’s return to the White House. Such data paints a grim picture for communities that once thrived on industrial activity.
Harder’s reflections highlight a stark reality: while the promise of revitalization lingers, immediate experiences of economic hardship are shaping perceptions and expectations.
The Role of Cultural Identity
A pivotal factor influencing Harder’s political awakening lies beyond economics; it intertwines deeply with social values. Voting for Trump was not solely about economic policy but also a reaction to changing cultural norms. Harder expresses a profound sense of disconnection from contemporary society, lamenting the visible influence of multiculturalism and changes in social behavior.
His views resonate with an often-overlooked segment of voters who may prioritize cultural issues alongside—or even above—economic concerns. This cultural dimension adds a layer of complexity to Harder’s support for Trump, revealing how identity politics can influence electoral decisions even amidst economic uncertainties.
The Impact on Voter Engagement
The calculus of political engagement in the Lehigh Valley has shifted. For voters like Harder, who cast a ballot for the first time in 2024, the question of future participation looms large. “If I see things running properly, yes,” he states, emphasizing a conditional engagement based on perceived success in governance.
Similarly, Michelle Rios, an advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion at a local college, represents a counterforce within the same community. Rios acknowledges the fear instilled within minority populations due to aggressive immigration policies that stem from Trump’s administration. For her, activism is centered around fostering community resilience in the face of uncertainty, bridging the gap for students navigating a landscape colored by instability.
Divergent Perspectives on Economic Policy
Gerard Babb’s perspective from the assembly line at Mack Trucks underscores the conflicting feelings within the manufacturing sector. Babb is watching with apprehension as layoffs loom due to company restructuring attributed to the impact of Trump’s tariffs. Even while he maintains a “B+” grade for Trump’s performance, the stress of potential unemployment weighs heavily. The complexity here illustrates that economic policies are an interlocking web that can either buoy or undermine the livelihoods of everyday Americans.
The Political Battleground
As the political landscape continues to evolve, the 7th Congressional District is poised to be a key battleground in the upcoming 2026 midterms. Harder’s and Babb’s experiences not only reflect individual stories but also illuminate broader trends shaping voter sentiment in a pivotal region. With a Republican congressman now representing the district, the stakes are high, and the response from these voters will be critical in determining future outcomes.
This local story encapsulates the intertwined narratives of economic, cultural, and political realities, presenting a microcosm of a nation grappling with its identity and direction. As voters navigate their circumstances, their stories will be pivotal in understanding the shifting tides of American discourse leading up to the next electoral cycle.
