Political science professor sees dual reasons behind President Trump’s visit to the Lehigh Valley
Written by Juliana on May 14, 2020
Political science professor sees dual reasons behind President Trump’s visit to the Lehigh Valley
By Jen Rehill
May 14, 2020

President Donald Trump is making his first visit to the Lehigh Valley today as president. He’ll be touring the Owens and Minor Medical Supplies Distribution Center in Upper Macungie Township.
Muhlenberg College Political Science professor Chris Borick says he thinks the trip is designed to serve multiple purposes; show leadership during the pandemic and connect with potential voters in the Valley.
“As the COVID-19 issue has emerged nationwide and in the commonwealth…the president’s ability to try and campaign in states has been taken away a little bit… he can’t do his rallies, so he’s trying to find ways to get out… keep pivotal states,” said Borick.
President Trump is expected to discuss the strategic national stockpile of PPE and efforts to lead the world in COVID-19 testing, according to White House officials.
“This issue is so salient, so important to Pennsylvanians. He has to make sure he has some success stories to tell.”
Borick says the Lehigh Valley is an important swing area in a crucial state for the upcoming election for both major party candidates. The Valley went twice for President Barack Obama, and then flipped for Trump in 2016.