In the era of globalization and the omnipresence of the internet, our lives have become intertwined with a vast network that extends far beyond the borders of our local communities. This phenomenon is not limited to the products we consume or the entertainment we enjoy; it extends to the realm of politics as well.

Growing up in the Philadelphia area, my wife and I share fond memories of local commercials that were as familiar to us as the streets we traversed daily. Brands like Kras Brothers Suits and Franks’ Soda were not just products; they were part of our shared cultural experience. However, with the advent of the internet, the boundaries of locality have blurred. What was once a regional delight is now a shared amusement accessible to anyone, anywhere in the world. No longer do we struggle to explain these local phenomena to out-of-town friends; instead, we can simply share a link, and the commercial or joke is conveyed effortlessly.

This extension of reach is not confined to consumer products or cultural phenomena—it extends to political discourse as well. Issues like abortion, gun control, federal taxes, international relations, and military matters are topics that many who follow politics can readily discuss. The challenge before us is that while we are well-versed in these national issues,  we often remain oblivious to the local matters that impact our daily lives.

The demise of local newspapers, once the bedrock of community information, has left a void that online platforms like ‘Patch’ are attempting to fill. However, the awareness and recognition of these digital substitutes remain limited. How many of us regularly peruse local papers. Can we name our county and state representatives? Many of us don’t.  I had to look it up when I started doing the research for W&P.  

The nationalization of politics has inadvertently led to a disconnect from the intricacies of our immediate surroundings. As we focus on global issues, local matters often slip through the cracks, and we find ourselves unaware of the decisions being made that directly impact our communities. It is important that we strive for a balance, acknowledging the significance of both national and local issues. The goal at W&P is to  be better-informed citizens, understanding and shaping the policies that affect not only the nation but also our neighborhoods and daily lives.