Turning now to our finding common ground series and a pair of political operatives on opposite sides of the aisle who are coming together to push both parties to make a big change to the 2028 presidential primary schedule. Former Biden White House Deputy Press Secretary Andrew Bates and former Republican National Committee Communications Director Doug Hy argue in an op-ed that North Carolina should hold the nation's first presidential primaries. writing in part, "The entire country would benefit from hearin ...

Economic & Industrial Transformation - Bethlehem's industrial past, particularly Bethlehem Steel Corporation's contributions to iconic structures, still resonates [2] - The steelworks, once employing over 30,000 people, closed in the 1990s due to unsustainable operations [3] - Bethlehem has reinvented itself over the past 25 years through revitalization, redevelopment, and new businesses in manufacturing and technology [4] - The community actively reinvented itself after Bethlehem Steel's closure [5] - The steelworks have been re-imagined into a thriving cultural hub [4] Demographic & Political Trends - Bethlehem is a crucial political battleground and a bellwether for a divided country [2] - Education and income levels in Bethlehem have risen steadily [5] - Voter behavior in Bethlehem has swung between Democratic and Republican candidates, mirroring national trends [5] - The city has democratic urban centers, while rural areas are more Republican [6] - The Financial Times (FT) will revisit Bethlehem to examine its hopes, aspirations, and challenges, including immigration raids and rising housing costs [6]