The Lehigh Valley is a key swing region in Pennsylvania, comprising Lehigh and Northampton County counties. Located 60 miles north of Philadelphia, it has undergone significant economic and demographic transformation.

Key Characteristics

• One of Pennsylvania's fastest-growing economic regions
• Former industrial center, anchored by Bethlehem Steel until 1998
• Diverse political makeup: Democratic urban centers surrounded by swingy suburbs and conservative rural areas
• Large Latino population growth, especially in Allentown

Economic Transformation

The region exemplifies American Manufacturing Decline and subsequent reinvention. After Bethlehem Steel's closure, the economy diversified into:

• Medical devices and healthcare
• Technology and semiconductors
• Logistics (major Amazon presence)
• Entertainment and tourism

Political Significance

The valley's political dynamics mirror broader Pennsylvania Political Dynamics, making it a crucial battleground. Northampton County particularly demonstrates the region's swing nature, having voted for Obama, then Trump, then Biden in consecutive elections.

The area's transformation has created tension between:

• Traditional manufacturing workers drawn to Trump's economic message
• New economy workers and suburban professionals
• Growing Latino population reshaping electoral dynamics