Restoring the Keystone: Pennsylvania’s Call for America First Policies

As one of the original 13 colonies, Pennsylvania has been an integral part of America’s journey from its very inception. It serves as a keystone of the American experiment, a state whose land bears witness to the trials and triumphs of America’s past and promises to do so for the future.

Pennsylvania stands as an emblem of liberty, resilience, and productivity deeply ingrained in the tapestry of American history. We have been an unwavering presence in the American narrative since our inception, a bedrock of industry and courage. The signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776 and the hallowed Battle of Gettysburg in 1863 are just a few of the pivotal moments etched in our rich history.

However, in recent decades, Pennsylvania has witnessed a troubling decline in its economic and industrial prosperity, largely attributed to high taxes and over-regulation. Manufacturing and industrial activities, once the lifeblood of the state, have declined, leading to job losses and an economic downturn. The consequences have been dire, with many businesses forced to shutter their doors. The industrial powerhouse for which our state was renowned has withered while other states have flourished, leaving Pennsylvania grappling with a shrinking workforce and a staggering population exodus. Between 2021 and 2022, more than 40,000 residents bid farewell to the Keystone State, which accounted for the fourth-largest percentage of departures of any state in the Nation.

One of the most significant factors exacerbating Pennsylvania’s economic woes is its outright hostility toward the energy sector. Excessive regulations have not only burdened businesses and their ability to stay afloat, but they have also crushed hard-working Pennsylvanians with exorbitant energy bill increases, ranging from 6% to a staggering 45%.

We have seen government policies create an economic environment where it is difficult to do

As the state that houses the bell that stands for liberty, we have fallen victim to leadership and policies that put America last – not first. But just as our founding fathers looked to Pennsylvania to shake off tyranny and establish freedom, we now look to our state to restore the promise of America First. Hence, the formation of the America First Policy Institute – Pennsylvania.

As a former U.S. Ambassador to the Kingdom of Denmark, I am truly honored to assume the role of Chair of the Pennsylvania chapter of this national policy powerhouse. This is a tremendous opportunity to contribute to the betterment of our great state as we ensure our primary policy objectives align with the most pressing needs of Pennsylvanians.

At the heart of America First is a desire at the national and local level to return to those policies that have already been proven to work. Whether it’s addressing crime, restoring America’s energy dominance, confronting the threat posed by China, and securing the southern border, America First policies work.

Our next goal is to bring that success to the true laboratories of democracy as our founders envisioned 247 years ago in Independence Hall – the states. America First - Pennsylvania is poised to address the issues that resonate most deeply with Pennsylvanians. America First’s

commitment is unwavering. We will focus on reviving Pennsylvania’s economy, providing quality education choices for our children, enforcing criminal penalties for immigration law violators, enhancing access to quality and affordable healthcare, securing our democracy and elections, and restoring safety to our neighborhoods.

America First is already making a difference. In the three years since its inception, we’ve worked on dozens of bills in Congress that put the American people first. We’ve worked in 28 states on issues ranging from school choice and stopping China from buying our farmland. We can bring the same success here – if we work together to do it.

America First – Pennsylvania stands ready to chart a path toward policies prioritizing the most important thing: people. It stands as a testament to our collective conviction that the future of our beloved state will be sculpted by the timeless principles and values that have rendered it exceptional since its birth. The spirit of Pennsylvania endures, resilient and unwavering, ready to rise once more. We have the power to craft a Pennsylvania where liberty, prosperity, and opportunity perpetually blossom for the generations yet to come.

Carla Sands serves as Chair of the America First Policy Institute – Pennsylvania. She also serves as the Vice Chair of America First’s Center for Energy and Environment. Previously, she was appointed to President Donald J. Trump’s Economic Advisory Council