Pennsylvania’s Muddled Leadership Loses to Ohio and West Virginia

Originally published by TribLIVE.

Pennsylvania’s nickname of the Keystone State, as variously reported, originates with the deciding vote for independence by a Pennsylvania member of the Continental Congress or in the commonwealth’s central location among the 13 colonies.

The state’s prominence continued through the 19th and 20th centuries when its oil, coal and manufacturing prowess were major economic forces. Today, with Pennsylvania situated in the nation’s most densely populated region, the commonwealth’s geography and resources continue to enhance its national role.

Yet if modern Penn’s Woods is to live up to its heritage, it needs to do better. Matching the superior performance of neighboring states like Ohio and West Virginia and repairing its reputation for a challenging business climate would be a good start.

Read more at TribLIVE.